Number: RL34264
Title: Strategic Airlift Modernization: Analysis of C-5 Modernization and C-17 Acquisition Issues
Authors: William Knight and Christopher Bolkcom, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: A major issue currently before Congress is how big should the strategic airlift fleet be. There is a consensus among policy makers that the DOD must maintain a robust and effective strategic airlift fleet. Currently, the most pressing issue is whether Congress should appropriate money for the purchase of more C-17s in the FY2008 emergency supplemental bill and, if so, for how many. A third potential issue is the optimal mix of C-5s and C- 17s that Congress should fund in FY2009 authorization and appropriation bills and in the out years. At least five options have been proposed for C-5 modernization and C-17 procurement.
Pages: 46
Date: June 6, 2008