L3Harris to Improve Readiness of US Air Force C-5 Fleet

The C-5 Galaxy fleet of the US Air Force is set to receive a significant readiness boost, courtesy of L3Harris. The company has developed a plan to enhance fleet availability, ensuring effective maintenance and modernisation of the Air Force’s largest aircraft.

As stated in the report “US Defence Market 2022-2027” by GlobalData, the C-5M Super Galaxy transport and utility aircraft have been in the possession of the US Air Force since 1970, with the last C-5 Galaxy delivered by Lockheed Martin in 2012.

L3Harris, with a 70-year history of providing missionisation, modernisation, and maintenance solutions to defence, commercial, and international partners, has already established C-5 depot maintenance, modification, and paint service facilities in Waco, Texas. The company also intends to expand its capabilities with the potential award of the US Air Force’s C-5 Supplemental Depot Capability contract.

To address potential supply chain risks associated with the large number of parts required for C-5 sustainment, L3Harris is actively engaging with the industry to ensure a robust logistics management system. By doing so, the company aims to mitigate risks and improve the efficiency of organic C-5 depot activities.

Another crucial aspect of L3Harris’ initiative is the expansion of its workforce in the Rome, New York region. This strategic recruitment approach is intended to ensure that a skilled and readily available team is in place to support C-5 depot activities. In collaboration with industry partners, state, and county governments, L3Harris envisions its depot capability as a cornerstone in enabling the US Air Force to fly and sustain the C-5 platform.

In 2019, the US Air Force Rapid Sustainment Office (AF RSO) collaborated with Delta Air Lines and the Georgia Institute of Technology to share best practices for C-5 Galaxy modernization and reliability processes.

With their expertise, strategic partnerships, and extensive experience, L3Harris is preparing to provide a low-risk sustainment option for the US Air Force, equipped with C-5-specific technological knowledge, two paint facilities, an existing customer relationship rooted in C-5 support, and infrastructure ready for imminent execution.

By leveraging strategic collaborations, proactive engagement with the industry, and a well-thought-out recruitment approach, L3Harris is positioned to enhance the capabilities and readiness of the US Air Force’s C-5 fleet. This proactive stance will ensure that the C-5 Galaxy fleet remains a reliable and effective part of the Air Force’s operations.