C-17 microvanes poised for fleet-wide rollout
Posted on January 16, 2025 by alert5
After years of testing and refinement, the U.S. Air Force’s microvane program is nearing full implementation across it’s C-17 fleet. These small, strategically placed devices are set to reduce aerodynamic drag and increase fuel efficiency by redirecting airflow around the aircraft’s fuselage, proving that even the most mature aircraft designs can be enhanced.
Photo: SSgt Thaxton
Air Force Operational Energy and Air Mobility Command are now in the final stages of evaluating the microvane technology. The microvanes themselves are deceptively simple: small, 3D-printed devices, measuring approximately 4 x 16 inches, and shaped like a thin blade. These are attached to the rear of the C-17’s fuselage using strong adhesive bonding. A dozen of these devices are placed strategically to redirect airflow, reduce drag, and cut fuel consumption by approximately one percent. This seemingly small reduction is expected to have a substantial impact over the entire fleet.
The financial implications of this technology are striking. With the projected savings of over $14 million annually, the investment in microvanes is expected to pay for itself in just seven months. This represents not only a cost-saving measure but a significant stride in increasing operational capabilities. The enhanced fuel efficiency means an extended mission range and improved support to the joint force in high-demand operations. The technology has garnered significant interest from partner nations, including Canada and the United Kingdom, who are also considering adopting the modification for their own C-17 fleets.
https://alert5.com/2025/01/16/c-17-microvanes-poised-for-fleet-wide-rollout/
