What is the C-5 Galaxy?
The Lockheed C-5 Galaxy is a large military transport aircraft designed and manufactured by Lockheed. It provides the US Air Force with a heavy intercontinental-range strategic airlift capability capable of carrying enormous cargoes and all air-certifiable cargo. The C-5 is one of the world’s largest military aircraft.
Its Development
The development of the C-5 Galaxy was complex, with huge major costs, and Lockheed experienced significant financial difficulties. Cracks in the wings of several aircraft were discovered shortly after they entered service, and the C-5 fleet’s capabilities were limited until repair work was done. The C-5 has been in service with the United States Air Force since 1969.
Variants
The C-5 has multiple models that are listed below:
- C-5A — The C-5A is the initial variant of the C-5, which flew for the first time in 1969 and was retired on September 7, 2017.
- C-5B — The C-5B is an upgraded variant of the C-5A, which flew in 1986.
- C-5C — The C-5C is a particularly modified version designed to carry vast amounts of cargo.
- C-5 AMP — The C-5 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) began in 1998, with the goal of updating the avionics to meet Global Air Traffic Management requirements. The first flight of a C-5 AMP took place on December 21, 2002.
- C-5M Super Galaxy — The C-5M Super Galaxy’s development began in 2006. It involves installing new engines, each of which provides 22% more thrust, allowing for a 30% shorter takeoff, a 38% faster climb rate to starting altitude, an increased cargo capacity, and a more extended range.
Specifications
The latest variant of the C-5 (C-5M) has a maximum takeoff weight of 417,305 kg and a maximum fuel capacity of 51,150 US gal. It has 4 General Electric turbofan engines, each producing up to 230 kN of thrust.
This military transport beast has a maximum speed of 856 km/h (Mach 0.79) and can travel up to 8,900 km with a 54,431 kg payload.
The C-5M Super Galaxy has a height of 19.84 m and a gross weight of 381,018 kg
