Boeing delivers Qatar's 1st C-17 Globemaster III

"With this C-17, and the one that will be delivered later this year, the Qatar Emiri Air Force now has unequaled tactical and strategic airlift capabilities, including high reliability and operational flexibility, that enhance our ability to transport troops and equipment and to support humanitarian operations throughout the Middle East and South Asia," said Brig. Gen. Ahmad Al-Malki, head of Qatar's airlift selection committee.

Qatar became the first Middle East nation to order the C-17 when it signed an agreement with Boeing on July 21, 2008, for the purchase of two advanced airlifters and associated equipment and services.

"We pledge that Qatar's commitment to the C-17 will be matched by our expertise and dedication to give them the finest airlifter the world has ever known,"

said Jean Chamberlin, Boeing vice president and general manager, Global Mobility Systems.

"We are proud to extend our mission, to deliver and support the C-17, to an area of the world where the aircraft will be used effectively and efficiently to help keep the peace and to provide aid on a moment's notice."

Boeing will deliver Qatar's second C-17 later this year. The company will provide operational support, including material management and depot maintenance support, under the C-17 Globemaster III Sustainment Partnership.

"Qatar's selection of the C-17 reflects the strong international interest we continue to see in this advanced airlifter, especially in the Middle East, where it brings unparalleled capabilities for military, humanitarian and disaster-relief missions," said Tommy Dunehew, Boeing Global Mobility Systems vice president of Business Development.

There are currently 205 C-17s in service worldwide. With today's delivery, 16 have been placed with international customers. The U.S. Air Force, including active Guard and Reserve units, has 189.

International customers include Qatar, the UK Royal Air Force, the Canadian Forces, the Royal Australian Air Force and the 12-member Strategic Airlift Capability consortium of NATO/Partnership for Peace nations. The United Arab Emirates announced on Feb. 24 that it will acquire four C-17s.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions, and the world's largest and most versatile manufacturer of military aircraft. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32bn business with 70,000 employees worldwide.