The government of Qatar has signed an agreement with Boeing to buy additional four C-17 Globemaster III airlifters, aimed to support Qatar Armed Forces’ (QAF) ongoing airlift requirements.
Qatar received two C-17s in 2009 and two additional C-17s in 2012 from Boeing.
Qatar Emiri Air Force deputy commander General Ahmed Al-Malki said: "We are very pleased with the C-17s from Boeing and look forward to doubling our fleet to enhance worldwide operations."
The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III is a military tactical transport aircraft designed to conduct rapid strategic airlift of troops and supply of palleted cargo to main operating bases or forward-operating bases in extreme climates worldwide.
With a high-wing, four-engine, this military transport vehicle is capable of carrying payloads up to 169,000lb (76,657kg).
The C-17 features a fully integrated electronic cockpit and advanced cargo system. It is capable of accommodating a crew of three and also operating all systems on any type of mission.
Boeing Military Aircraft International Customer Service and Sales vice-president Tommy Dunehew said: "We’re confident the additional C-17s will significantly increase the QAF’s ability to support the people of Qatar and their allies with transport, airdrop and humanitarian missions.
"Boeing stands ready to support, sustain and maintain Qatar’s expanded fleet of C-17s to keep their planes mission ready."
The C-17 aircraft is also operated by air forces in the US, India, the UAE, Canada, Australia, the UK, and the 12-member Strategic Airlift Capability initiative of Nato and Partnership for Peace nations.
Image: A United Arab Emirates Air Force C-17 Globemaster III airlifter. Photo: courtesy of UR-SDV.
