Warbird Information Exchange

While driving down the flightline at Charleston AFB, SC, this morning I saw in the distance a C-17 without the distinctive tail stripe indicating its home base. As I got closer, I noticed the RAF roundel on the side and a black and red "flag" on the tail. There was also a black lion painted higher on the tail. The words "Royal Air Force" was on the fuselage ahead of the wing. I wasn't able to get close enough to read the number by the roundel. Overall a very minimally marked aircraft.

How many C-17s does the RAF have, and are they getting more? This was the first one I've seen.

Walt

The RAF has leased 4 of them from the manufacturer. The are statione with 99 Squadron out of Brieze Norton.

There is a move afoot for the UK to purchase the 4 on lease and perhaps buy one additional aircraft. Some of the maintenance is done in the US as part of the leasing arrangement.

bdk, yes the RAF are buying the 4 they alrady have + 1 more
RAF C-17 in link
http://raf-aircrafts.royalmagazine.net/c17_08.htm