The United States Air Force (USAF) aims to introduce its next-generation airlifter (NGAL) in the early 2040s. The NGAL program is still in the early stages of defining its requirements, but it has already emphasized the need for greater speed and enhanced operational flexibility. Ultimately, the new aircraft will be expected to replace both the Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy and the Boeing C-17A Globemaster III.

In the meantime, current airlift plans indicate that the Lockheed Martin C-5M Super Galaxy must remain operational through 2045, while the Boeing C-17A Globemaster III is expected to stay in service until 2075, according to the Air Mobility Command’s strategy memo released on November 19, 2025. The news was first reported by TWZ .

USAF Vision For The NGAL

The single NGAL

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