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25 Years of The RAF C-17
Story by Charlie Cumming
photos_by_ch4lie
Published by Matthew Dawson May 8th, 2026
Photographs by Charlie Cumming unless specified otherwise
On May 17th 2026, the Royal Air Force celebrates a milestone: 25 years of operating the C-17 Globemaster III, one of the most capable strategic airlifters in the world. From combat operations in the middle east to humanitarian aid missions in the Philippines, its impact has been extensive — so what exactly has the fleet already achieved, and what comes next?
What is the C17?
The C17 “Globemaster III”, lovingly known as The Moose, is Boeing's strategic airlifter, capable of taking off from a mere 1km (3500 ft) runway while weighing over 45000kg (585,000 lbs).
This versatility, combined with an operating range of 4500 miles makes it ideal for air forces globally, with the ability to drop both troops and cargo from the ramp, directly into hostile territory, and the ability to land on rough, or even unpaved runways in any climate, the C17 is clearly a very competent aircraft, with the RAF proud of the fact that it is always the first aircraft to arrive, and the last to leave during operations.
Why did the RAF need this platform?
In 1976, the RAF retired the Short Belfast, which left them without a dedicated large transport aircraft, this became a problem, particularly during the Falklands conflict in 1982 where they relied on civilian aircraft to support operations, in particular Boeing 707’s and DC8’s.
In 2000, the RAF leased 4 C17s from the US Air Force to support operations in the middle east, and on May 17th, 2001, the first of the initial purchase of 4 airframes was delivered to RAF Brize Norton, to their current operator, RAF 99 squadron, the “Tenacious Pumas”
Key Roles
The C17 has earned its place in the RAF’s fleet through numerous combat deployments, historically, during Operation Pitting, over 15000 people were evacuated from Kabul (Afghanistan), with 439 passengers on a single flight. This marked the end of the UKs near 20 year involvement in Afghanistan
Recently, they have been working alongside the RCAF, during Operation Boxtop, delivering millions of litres of fuel to remote settlements and research centres, at the North Pole. Flt Lt Mike Chandler of 99 squadron commented that in these arctic conditions the “C17 performs superbly” where the weather can “Change on a dime”. (Royal Air Force)
Famously, in 2022, 99 squadron was tasked with flying the late Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin to the capital, from Scotland, this is the record holder for the world's most tracked flight, with over 5 million people tracking the aircraft at once. (AGN)
The RAF Falcon display team also work alongside the C17 squadron, acting as the starting point for many of their display jumps, notably at Pacific Airshow 2025, which had many spotters interested due to the lack of participation during the US government shutdown.
What does the future hold?
In the near future, there is expected to be a special tail scheme on one of the aircraft to commemorate 25 years of service, this is rumored to be seen publicly at RIAT, with 99 squadron currently expected to appear on the static display.
Beyond this, the RAF has updated the fleet, with current airframes expected to remain in service until 2040, with no direct replacement yet developed, the USAF is exploring a 2070 retirement date, which the RAF will likely also invest in. (UKDJ)
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