C17

C17, in common reference, denotes the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III, a large military transport aircraft developed by McDonnell Douglas and produced by Boeing for the United States Air Force and a number of allied air forces. It is designed to perform both strategic and tactical airlift missions, delivering troops, vehicles, and heavy equipment over long distances and into austere or semi-prepared airfields. The aircraft is also equipped for rapid airdrop operations and humanitarian relief missions.

Development and design details are centered on a reliance-built transport platform derived from the earlier YC-15 concept. The C-17 first flew in 1991 and entered service in the mid-1990s. It uses four turbofan engines, a high-mounted wing, and a T-tail, with a rear loading ramp that enables efficient cargo handling. Its design emphasizes flexibility, endurance, and the ability to operate from shorter or less developed runways than many other strategic transports.

In terms of capabilities, the C-17 can carry substantial payloads, including vehicles, helicopters, and large quantities of relief supplies. It provides long-range mobility with a high degree of operational versatility, including rapid offloading and the capacity to sustain missions with limited ground support. It is also able to perform airlift tasks in contested environments and to support humanitarian and disaster-relief operations.

Operational history of the C-17 includes extensive use by the United States Air Force and a number of allied services. It has supported conflicts and peacekeeping efforts, participated in humanitarian missions, and played a key role in global mobility and disaster response. Ongoing variants and sustainment programs continue to keep the type in front-line service with multiple operators worldwide.