A C-17 Globemaster III approaches a KC-135 Stratotanker Sept. 18, 2010, over the Pacific Ocean during a Total Force partnership mission. Air Force officials announced Stewart Air National Guard Base as their preferred base for eight C-17 Globemaster IIIs Nov. 16, 2010. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Mike Meares)
WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Air Force officials announced their preferred basing decision for eight C-17 Globemaster IIIs Nov. 16.
The preferred base, approved by the secretary and chief of staff of the Air Force, is Stewart Air National Guard Base, N.Y. Along with the C-17 basing action, 12 C-5 Galaxies assigned to Stewart ANGB will be retired.
"The Air Force has completed its initial analysis of a full range of alternatives and determined that basing the C-17 at Stewart is the preferred alternative," said Kathleen Ferguson, the Air Force deputy assistant secretary for installations. "This is not a final basing decision; it is the alternative we believe will fulfill our mission responsibilities while considering economic, environmental, and technical factors."
Once the environmental impact analysis process is complete, a final decision will be made.