Quick Summary
• 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…
Additional Context
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