C-17 Globemaster III's prepare for takeoff Dec. 21 at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C. The C-17 is capable of rapid, strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo. The design of the aircraft allows it to operate on small, austere airfields. It can take off and land on runways as short as 3,500 feet and 90 feet wide. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Marie Cassetty)
