Boeing to Modernise USAF C-17A Globemaster III Flight Deck

Why It Matters

The refresh preserves a critical strategic air‑mobility platform, enhancing readiness while mitigating costly avionics obsolescence across allied forces.

Key Takeaways

• Boeing wins >$400 million USAF flight‑deck upgrade contract
• Modernisation uses modular open systems architecture (MOSA)
• Upgrade aims to keep C‑17 operational through 2075
• Curtiss‑Wright supplies mission computers for the refresh program
• Enhances avionics, reduces obsolescence for US and partners

Pulse Analysis

The C‑17A Globemaster III has been the backbone of U.S. strategic airlift since the 1990s, moving troops, equipment, and humanitarian aid across continents. As the fleet ages, its original avionics risk becoming obsolete, threatening mission reliability and increasing maintenance costs. Boeing’s new contract addresses these challenges by delivering a comprehensive flight‑deck refresh that not only replaces outdated hardware but also embeds a future‑proof architecture, ensuring the aircraft remains a viable asset for decades.

Central to the upgrade is the adoption of a modular open systems architecture (MOSA), a design philosophy that separates hardware from software and standardises interfaces. This enables rapid insertion of emerging technologies—such as advanced navigation, communications, and electronic warfare suites—without extensive redesign. Curtiss‑Wright’s role in providing mission‑computer modules aligns with this strategy, offering higher processing power and scalable capacity that can be swapped as mission requirements evolve. The MOSA approach also simplifies logistics, as spare parts and software updates can be sourced from a broader supplier base, reducing lifecycle costs.

For the defense industry, the programme signals a shift toward sustainment‑focused modernization rather than full‑scale replacement. Extending the C‑17’s operational window to 2075 safeguards a substantial investment in air‑mobility capability while freeing budgetary resources for next‑generation platforms. Allied operators stand to benefit from shared upgrades, fostering interoperability and joint readiness. In a market where avionics obsolescence drives procurement decisions, Boeing’s MOSA‑driven refresh sets a benchmark for cost‑effective, long‑term aircraft modernization.

Boeing to modernise USAF C-17A Globemaster III flight deck

February 2026

Caption: C‑17As line up on the flight‑line. Credit: Boeing.

Boeing has secured a contract from the U.S. Air Force (USAF) to deliver a modernised flight deck for the C‑17A Globemaster III.

The contract covers the design, production, integration, qualification, and military certification of updated avionics and mission‑critical systems for the aircraft.

Under the agreement, Boeing will replace existing flight‑deck equipment with new technology based on a modular open systems architecture (MOSA). This approach is intended to enable rapid and cost‑effective adoption of new capabilities as they become available.

Between 1993 and 2015, Boeing delivered a total of 275 C‑17A aircraft. Out of this fleet, 222 were supplied to the U.S. Air Force while 53 went to nine partner nations around the world.

Boeing US Air Force mobility and training services vice president Travis Williams said:

“The C‑17A has been the backbone of global air mobility for over three decades. With the US Air Force requirement to keep the C‑17A viable through 2075, we already have a clear and achievable roadmap to support their needs, and the needs of our international partners around the globe.

By resolving avionics obsolescence and introducing MOSA, we’re preserving a proven, highly dependable, heavy airlifter and keeping it at the forefront of performance and efficiency for decades to come.”

In a separate development, Boeing has selected Curtiss‑Wright to deliver mission‑computer technology as part of the USAF’s C‑17 Globemaster III Flight Deck Obsolescence and Technology Refresh programme.

The contract, estimated to exceed $400 million in lifetime value, supports a significant avionics upgrade intended to prolong the service life and capabilities of the C‑17 fleet.

Under this agreement, Curtiss‑Wright will provide Boeing with mission computers aligned with the MOSA, which will be integrated into the C‑17 aircraft. These systems are aimed at enhancing computing performance and facilitating technology updates, supporting both the USAF and allied operators throughout the aircraft’s planned operational period.