May 13, 2004 - Congressman Adam Smith (D-Tacoma) announced today that the House Armed Services Committee has approved full funding for an additional 14 C-17 aircraft. The C-17 is the workhorse of the Air Force and is stationed at McChord Air Force Base in the Congressman’s district.

“The C-17 modernizes the U.S. Air Force airlift fleet with the world’s most versatile, reliable and capable airlift aircraft,” said Smith. “The C-17 has the unique abilities to excel in both the intercontinental strategic airlift mission and the intertheatre tactical airlift role.”

Smith also added language to the bill that would support the multi-year procurement of this vital U.S. Air Force aircraft.

Smith requested funding through the 2005 Defense Appropriations bill. It is expected that this bill will be finalized before Congress adjourns this year.