Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy Completes Flight Test
Written by thomas · Filed Under Aeronautics NewsAugust 18, 2008
MARIETTA, Ga., Aug. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The Lockheed Martin
(NYSE: LMT) C-5 Reliability Enhancement and Re-engining Program (RERP)
flight test team has successfully completed developmental testing of all
three C-5 RERP test aircraft. The testing included verification of
performance and reliability enhancements to the propulsion system,
utilities and subsystems, flight controls, airframe and avionics systems.
“This significant milestone is yet another step in ensuring the C-5
continues supporting our customer’s strategic airlift requirements for many
decades,” said George Shultz, vice president of the C-5 Modernization
Program at Lockheed Martin. “Completing this test profile represents the
hard work, cooperation and professionalism of our combined USAF and
Lockheed Martin test team. The modified C-5M performed great throughout the
test program, demonstrating consistent and reliable performance allowing
this team to execute all test points as planned.”
Now that RERP developmental flight test is complete, preparations get
underway to deliver the three test aircraft to the Air Force in support of
Operational Test and Evaluation, scheduled to begin in the third quarter of
2009.
The C-5M Super Galaxy is the result of a two-phase modernization
effort. The first and ongoing phase is the Avionics Modernization Program
(AMP), which provides a state-of-the art glass cockpit and a digital
backbone to support the RERP modifications. Forty-three C-5 aircraft have
completed the AMP modifications. The aircraft, already returned to the
fleet, have logged more than 38,000 hours of operational use.
RERP is the second phase, which adds new GE CF6-80C2 commercial engines
and 70 other enhancements or replacements of major components and
subsystems. The modification significantly increases systems reliability
and improves availability. The additional 10,000 pounds of thrust per
propulsion system creates 40,000 pounds more thrust across the platform,
significantly improving operational performance. These reliability
enhancements dramatically reduce total ownership cost for the USAF, and the
more fuel efficient CF6-80C2 will offer an additional fuel savings benefit.
The C-5 fleet has been the backbone of strategic airlift in every
engagement since it entered service. 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 C-5M can carry
twice the cargo of other strategic airlift systems and the modified C-5M
Super Galaxy will continue to be a force enabler through 2040.
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security
company that employs about 140,000 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 2007 sales of $41.9 billion.
SOURCE Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company
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