Lockheed Martin reached a critical milestone in the C-5 Galaxy modernization programs, as technicians installed the first engine pylon on a Reliability Enhancement and Re-engining Program (RERP) test aircraft. The RERP is the second phase of a two-phased C-5 modernization effort and incorporates over 70 improvements to the aircraft, including new engines. Both C-5A and C-5B test aircraft are included in this modernization test effort that improves the reliability of the aircraft and adds longer term mission capability most cost effectively. Current Air Force acquisition plans call for modernization of all 112 C-5s in service.

"The C-5 Galaxy is truly an irreplaceable national asset" says George Shultz, Lockheed Martin vice president, C-5 Modernization Program. "No other aircraft in U.S. inventory can do what a C-5 can do and modernization is crucial. With new avionics and new engines, the new C-5M will give the United States unparalleled capabilities for the global deployment of personnel and supplies. The C-5 is one of the reasons the U.S. is able to engage in the operations it does, and modernization will carry the C-5 out to the 2040 timeframe."

Installation of the new pylons, designed and built by Goodrich Aerospace, prepares the aircraft for the new engines which will be installed later this year. C-5 RERP uses the proven General Electric CF6-80C2 engine which is one of the most widely used engines in commercial service and includes such distinguished aircraft as Air Force One. The new engines are capable of delivering more than 50,000 pounds of thrust per engine, allowing the aircraft to carry more than 270,000 pounds and take off and land in distances as short as 5,000 feet. The new C-5 engines deliver 22% more thrust, achieve 30% shorter takeoff distances, enable 58% faster climb, and provide the warfighter a ten-fold improvement in reliability and maintainability over the current TF39 engines. CF6 engines have a 99.98% departure reliability rate in commercial service.

The first phase of the C-5 Modernization effort is the Avionics Modernization Program (AMP). AMP replaces the analog cockpit instruments and systems with new and improved features, including a digital all-weather flight control system, autopilot and enhanced navigation and safety equipment.

The first flight of a fully modified C-5 -- one that has undergone both the AMP and RERP upgrades -- is scheduled for spring 2006. The modernized aircraft will be designated C-5M.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin employs about 130,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture and integration of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2004 sales of $35.5 billion.

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SOURCE: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company