We're All in this Together: Lessons Learned from C-17 All- Weather Formation Testing

摘要

The C-17 Integrated Test Team was able to confidently test, evaluate and field the C-17 Formation Flight System only after incorporating lessons learned from previous formation efforts . During the 20 years of C-17 formation system development, three different solutions were evaluated. Significant technical obstacles were discovered with each system but the test team's efforts fell short in several areas. In particular, the team did not secure adequate resources from Air Mobility Command (AMC) to thoroughly evaluate each system. Additionally, other technical issues did not surface until testing was moved outside of dedicated test ranges. By securing an adequate number of aircraft and crews, and moving the test effort to a more realistic environment, we were able to deliver a formation system that AMC crews could implement effectively during both training and combat operations.