C-5A Galaxy

The Lockheed Martin C‑5A Galaxy, introduced in the late 1960s, is one of the largest strategic airlift aircraft ever built. Developed for the United States Air Force, its first flight occurred on June 30, 1968 and it entered operational service in 1970, replacing older transports such as the C‑124. The C‑5A can carry up to 270,000 pounds of cargo, including tanks, helicopters, and oversized components, within a pressurised fuselage that measures 121 feet long and 67 feet wide. Powered by four General Electric TF39‑JTA turbofan engines, it delivers a cruising speed of Mach 0.77 and a range of more than 5,500 nautical miles with a full payload. Unique features include a nose and aft cargo door that allow simultaneous loading and unloading, and a built‑in in‑flight refueling receptacle that extends its global reach. Throughout the Cold War and into modern conflicts, the Galaxy proved essential for rapid deployment of troops and equipment, shaping logistical strategies worldwide. Its massive payload capability and strategic versatility set a new standard for heavy airlift, influencing subsequent designs such as the Airbus A400M and Boeing C‑17, and cementing the C‑5A’s legacy as a cornerstone of military aviation.

Lockheed Martin

Classification

Dimensions

Performance

Production & History

Design & Classification