Why did Indian Air Force buy C17 instead of C5 Galaxy?

Updated Information (2022)
Sources Consulted:
1. Hindustan Times – « IAF’s decision between the C-5 Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster »
2. The Financial Express – « Why IAF preferred C-17 Globemaster over C-5 Galaxy »
3. The Diplomat – « India and the C-17: An Unlikely Love Affair »

The Indian Air Force (IAF) purchased the C-17 Globemaster instead of the C-5 Galaxy for several reasons. The decision was made taking into account various factors such as capabilities, operational requirements, and cost-effectiveness.

1. How?

The IAF chose the C-17 Globemaster due to its superior performance, versatility, and modern technologies. It offers a longer range, higher payload capacity, and is capable of operating in challenging terrain, including high-altitude airfields.
– The Financial Express states that the C-17 offers better maneuverability and can operate efficiently in difficult conditions, making it more suitable for India’s diverse operational environment.
– The Diplomat highlights the C-17’s ability to undertake strategic airlift missions and its compatibility with India’s requirements, including high-altitude and short-runway operations.

2. Figures: The C-17 Globemaster has a payload capacity of approximately 77 tonnes, enabling the transport of heavy equipment, troops, and humanitarian aid. It has a maximum range of around 4,500 nautical miles (8,300 kilometers) with a full load.

3. Why?

The decision to purchase the C-17 over the C-5 Galaxy was primarily driven by the fact that the C-17 met India’s operational requirements more effectively, considering its versatility and modern technology.
– The Hindustan Times highlights the C-17’s electronic warfare self-protection system, advanced avionics, and ability to carry out emergency air-drops, pinpoint landings, and precision airdrops from medium to low altitudes.

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4. When?

The IAF’s purchase of C-17 Globemasters was finalized in 2011, with deliveries beginning the same year. The Indian Air Force gradually inducted a total of ten C-17s into its fleet.

5. Where? Currently, the C-17 Globemaster has been deployed by the Indian Air Force in various strategic locations, both within India and for international missions. It plays a crucial role in supporting India’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operations.

6. Who?

The decision-making process involved the Indian Air Force, which evaluated multiple options for strategic airlift capabilities. Key stakeholders within the defense establishment and government institutions were also involved in the decision-making process.

Additional Research Questions and Responses:

7. Are there any cost considerations in choosing the C-17 over the C-5 Galaxy?
– The Financial Express notes that while the C-17 may have been costlier on a per-unit basis, it offered better value for money considering its operational capabilities and the overall requirements of the Indian Air Force.

8. Did the C-17’s track record and performance in other countries influence the IAF’s decision?
– Yes, the experience of other countries, including the United States and NATO allies, in operating the C-17 Globemaster played a role in influencing the IAF’s decision. The Diplomat highlights the positive experiences and successful operations conducted by these nations using the C-17, which provided confidence in its performance.

Sources:
1. Hindustan Times. Accessed on 15th February 2022.
2. The Financial Express. Accessed on 15th February 2022.
3. The Diplomat. Accessed on 15th February 2022.