Gourley, John C-141 Starlifter. Lockheed's Cold War Strategic Airlifter

The Lockheed C-141 Starlifter was a new-build design by Lockheed and proved adaptable to many roles, from carrying outsized cargo to dropping paratroops. The C-141 was used in difficult environmental conditions, such as the heat and extreme humidity of Vietnam, the deserts of the Middle East and the frozen ice pack of Antarctica. Modification programs enabled the C-141 to make full use of its capabilities, by adding in-flight refueling plus extending the length of the fuselage. The plane was a valued and appreciated USAF asset in numerous missions, from disaster aid and humanitarian relief to doing their part in Operation Desert Shield/Storm, and in the war on terror. The aircraft were eventually retired en masse in 2006 simply as a result of wear and tear. This book covers in detail all aspects such as interior/exterior configurations, cargo capabilities, missions and modifications made throughout its service life.

Through modification programmes, the C-141 was always able to expand its capabilities, such as adding air-to-air refuelling or extending the fuselage to accommodate an even larger landing. The aircraft was an important part of many U.S. Air Force missions, from disaster relief and humanitarian aid to its role during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm and the War on Terror. The "Starlifter" was finally decommissioned in 2006 due to wear and tear in large numbers. This book covers in detail all aspects such as interior and exterior configurations, loading capabilities, missions and modifications made throughout the life of the C-141.