C-17 makes debut (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

C-17 makes debut

8:09am Tuesday 29th March 2011 in Ex-Service Notes By Craig Mitchell

The RAF’s newest C-17 (Globemaster III) aircraft has completed its first operational mission to Afghanistan, delivering essential supplies to the front line. The aircraft delivered over 25 tonnes of ammunition, aircraft spares and air conditioning units. RAF movement’s staff then rapidly dispatched the important cargo to British forces across Helmand province.

This latest multi-million pound aircraft is the seventh Globemaster in the RAF’s fleet. The C-17’s huge capacity means it can carry loads of up to 70 tonnes – for example, three Warrior armoured vehicles or three Apache helicopters. The C-17 has the ability to deliver heavy loads into remote airfields with short and narrow runways at night. It has a range of over 4,500 miles which provides the RAF with the capacity to support operations anywhere in the world.

DIARY DATES Today: The Royal Marines Association meet at 19.30 hours at West Bowling WMC, Dovesdale Road, Bradford. The Yorkshire Volunteers Regiment Association meet at 19.30 hours at the Drill Hall, Keighley, A presentation night for the Bradford central branch of The Royal British Legion is tonight at St Anthony’s church hall, Clayton. The presentation night will start at 19.00 hours, all members are invited. There will not be a branch meeting this afternoon.

Wednesday: The Russian Convoy Club meets at 11.30 hours at Eastborough WMC, Dewsbury. The Low Moor and Wyke branch of the Royal British Legion meets at 20.00 hours at The Harold Club, Wyke.

Thursday: The Submariners Association meets at 20.00 hours at Tong Street Conservative Club.

Friday: The RAF regiment Association meets at 19.30 hours at Thornbury Barracks.

Saturday: The Borneo and Malayan Veterans meet at 14.00 hours at Headingley Club.

Monday: The Skipton branch of the Royal Naval Association meets at 20.00 hours at The White Rose Club, Skipton.