Lockheed Martin, MARIETTA: The newly modernized Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy completed Dynamic Taxi Testing at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., Aug. 25.
“This phase of rigorous testing validates the structural design of the new engine pylon,” said George Shultz, vice president, Lockheed Martin C-5 modernization program. “Our job is to ensure that we provide the warfighter with a modernized aircraft that withstands the rigors of combat. At the same time, this aircraft provides enhanced reliability and will result in significant life cycle cost savings for the USAF.”
“If we are going to extend the C-5 for another 20 years and support strategic airlift operations, we need to exploit new technologies in order to make the C-5 better. The reason we are doing this is to prove the reliability of the aircraft so we can better support the warfighter,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Aaron Tucker, 418th Flight Test Squadron C-5 experimental pilot. “With RERP, the C-5 can move more cargo faster, using less fuel.”
A C-5M aircraft goes through the Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) along with the Reliability Enhancement and Re-Engining Program (RERP). “The fleet will undergo AMP first, then RERP,” said Shultz. “The USAF has logged more than 2,400 operational flight hours both overseas and in the U.S. on aircraft that have completed the avionics modernization. All indications are they are very pleased with its performance.”
The C-5 took to the air for the first time as the C-5M Super Galaxy on June 16 from Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, Ga. Since that first flight, the joint Lockheed Martin / Air Force test team has put the strategic airlifter through numerous test conditions.
The main focus of this portion of system design and development testing was the C-5M's structure movement when traveling over rougher surfaces with the new engines and pylon. This portion of the robust test program for this unique strategic airlift capability demonstrates the structural integrity of more than 70 enhancements to the aircraft.
The C-5 fleet, with more than 2 million flight hours, has been the backbone of strategic airlift in every military engagement from Vietnam through Operation Iraqi Freedom. It is the only aircraft capable of carrying 100 percent of certified air-transportable cargo with a dedicated passenger compartment, enabling commanders to have troops and their equipment arrive in an area of operation simultaneously.
The Avionics Modernization Program adds a new, modern cockpit that includes a digital all-weather flight control system and autopilot, a new communications suite, flat panel displays, and enhanced navigation and safety equipment to ease crew workload and enhance situational awareness.
The centerpiece of the Reliability Enhancement and Re-engining Program is the new General Electric CF6-80C2 commercial engine. This engine delivers a 22 percent increase in thrust, a 30 percent shorter take-off roll, 58 percent faster climb rate and will allow significantly more cargo to be carried over longer distances.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 135,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2005 sales of $37.2 billion.
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