Not True.The C-17 replaced the C-141 Star Lifter of the Vietnam era.The C-5 is still in the Air Force inventory.
United States Air Force C-5 in flight
Role
Strategic airlifter
National origin
United States
Manufacturer
Lockheed Corporation
Lockheed Martin
First flight
30 June 1968[1]
Introduction
June 1970
Status
In service
Primary user
United States Air Force
Produced
C-5A: 1968–1973
C-5B: 1985–1989
Number built
131 (C-5A: 81, C-5B: 50)
Unit cost
C-5A: US$224.29 million (2016)[2]
C-5B: US$262.75 million (2016)[2]
C-5C: US$129.17 million (2016)[2]
C-5M: US$100.37 million (2016)[2]
The C-5 Galaxy’s development was complicated, including significant cost overruns, and Lockheed suffered significant financial difficulties. Shortly after entering service, cracks in the wings of many aircraft were discovered and the C-5 fleet was restricted in capability until corrective work was completed. The C-5M Super Galaxy is an upgraded version with new engines and modernized avionics designed to extend its service life beyond 2040.
The USAF has operated the C-5 since 1969. In that time, the airlifter supported US military operations in all major conflicts including Vietnam, Iraq, Yugoslavia, and Afghanistan, as well as allied support, such as Israel during the Yom Kippur War and operations in the Gulf War. The Galaxy has also been used to distribute humanitarian aid and disaster relief, and supported the US Space Shuttle program.