The U.S. Air Force is asking more of its cargo aircraft, testing the fleet’s ability to perform as a bomber in addition to transporting troops, equipment, and supplies.
As part of an Air Force initiative known as “Rapid Dragon,” the Air Mobility Command is exploring whether it’s possible and advantageous for cargo planes like the C-17 Globemaster to airdrop long-range palletized bombs.
The testing began in 2020 and USAF officials believe aircraft like the C-17 can become offensively critical to future missions. Testing not only includes bombing capabilities, but also deploying decoys, jamming sensors, and distributing sensors that could help in search-and-rescue missions.
The C-17 is designed to transport trucks and armored vehicles, airdrop approximately 100 paratroopers, and carry a payload of more than 170,000 pounds. This new testing can expand the Globemaster’s mission, an economic and strategic advantage for the Air Force.