U.S. Air Force Upgrades Nine C-17 Transport Aircraft With New Satellite Communications

Boeing has completed Starshield satellite-communications installations on nine US Air Force C-17 Globemaster III transports as part of an initial 19-aircraft upgrade running through March 2027. Work at Port San Antonio uses equipment and installation kits supplied by Sierra Nevada Corporation, including Airlift/Tanker Open Mission Systems components. The modification is intended to improve in-flight mission-data exchange so crews can receive revised tasking and coordinate airlift requirements beyond line of sight. Possible expansion to the full 222-aircraft fleet remains unconfirmed, and completed installations do not establish operational acceptance or demonstrated performance under interference.