U.S. Air Force to Outfit Entire C-17 Fleet with 3D Printed Drag-Reduction Devices

The Air Force Lifecycle Management Center, working alongside the Air Force Research Laboratory and Air Mobility Command, have developed small blade-shaped aerodynamic inserts, formally designated microvanes, and tested them on a limited number of C-17 Globemaster III cargo aircraft.

Each plane received twelve of the devices, each measuring roughly 10 centimeters by 40 centimeters, bonded to the rear exterior of the fuselage. The result was a measurable improvement in aerodynamic efficiency. According to the Air Force Lifecycle Management Center, “C-17s equipped with microvanes experience a one-percent reduction in drag (and fuel consumption) compared to their unmodified counterparts,” with annual projected savings exceeding $14 million across the fleet.

C-17 Globemaster III at Stewart Ai