Lockheed C-5 Galaxy.
Created by: The_Smartass.

The Lockheed C-5 Galaxy is a large American military transport aircraft, designed and built by Lockheed, and currently maintained and improved by its successor, Lockheed Martin. It provides the United States Air Force (USAF) with intercontinental range heavy strategic transport capability, being able to carry enormous and oversized loads, including all certifiable air cargo. The Galaxy bears many similarities to the smaller Lockheed C-141 Starlifter and the later Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. The C-5 is among the largest military aircraft in the world.

Development of the C-5 Galaxy was complicated, including significant cost overruns, and Lockheed suffered significant financial difficulties. Cracks in the wings of many aircraft were discovered shortly after entering service, and the C-5 fleet restricted their capabilities until corrective work was completed. The C-5M Super Galaxy is an upgraded version with new engines and modernized avionics, designed to extend its service life to 2040 and beyond.

The USAF has operated the C-5 since 1969. During that time, the airlift supported US military operations in major conflicts, including Vietnam, Iraq, Yugoslavia and Afghanistan, as well as supporting allies, such as Israel during the Yom Kippur War and operations in the Gulf War. The Galaxy has also distributed humanitarian aid, provided disaster relief, and supported the U.S. space program.