US Air Force considers restarting C-17 Globemaster III production as replacement moves toward 2040s

Air Mobility Command is examining whether restarting Boeing C-17 Globemaster III production could help bridge a strategic-airlift gap while a next-generation replacement remains unlikely before the 2040s. The study reflects concern over sustaining capacity as the existing fleet ages and demand for long-range deployment remains high. Reopening a line closed in 2015 would require reconstituting suppliers, tooling and skilled labor, so the review must weigh readiness gains against substantial cost, schedule and industrial risk rather than treating a restart as a near-term decision.