News

C-5M Super Galaxy completes milestone

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Matthew Hubby
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  With the completion of the Operational Testing and Evaluation, the C-5M Super Galaxy is effective, suitable and mission capable.

With this milestone behind it, the C-5M Super Galaxy will continue to operate at Dover Air Force Base as the project begins to develop conversion courses which will teach pilots and maintainers how to operate the aircraft are scheduled to begin in October.

"We'll continue to refine systems around the C-5M's capabilities," said Lt. Col. Mike Semo, 709th Airlift Squadron C-5M program office chief and C-5M pilot. "We want to capitalize on the direct delivery capabilities of the aircraft. If we can get the cargo three hours closer to the warfighter, we can save over 12 hours in flight time for the local C-17s."

The C-5M completed a non-stop flight to Iraq and delivered its cargo on time; something C-5A and B models were unable to do. This allows commanders more options in utilizing the aircraft's airlift capabilities depending on situations that arise, said Colonel Semo.

"It's a privilege to be chosen to field this aircraft," said Colonel Semo. "To have input in procedures and techniques that allow us to develop the system, it's an honor. The C-5M has really seen a lot of firsts here at Dover."

Another upcoming milestone will be the site survey for the pilot and flight engineering training unit at Dover for the C-5M which is scheduled to begin in June. The goal of this unit is to train pilots and flight engineers to be proficient in the new C-5M.

"Everyone is excited to get the C-5M," said Colonel Semo. "Pilots want to fly it and the squadrons want to begin conversions as soon as possible. It's going to be a really easy transition over to this new aircraft."

Dover is scheduled to receive its fourth C-5M in Sept. This C-5M will be the first production model of a modified C-5B. The full rate production decision is scheduled to be decided in September.