CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. – Air Force Operational Energy and Air Mobility Command are entering the final phase of evaluation for microvane drag reduction technology on the C-17 Globemaster III. Developed through a collaborative effort involving the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, private industry, and the Air Force Lifecycle Management Center, microvanes will improve operational capabilities across the Department of the Air Force and increase the effectiveness of the USAF C-17 fleet.
Microvanes are 3D-printed devices measuring approximately 4 x 16 inches and resembling a thin blade. Using strong adhesive bonding, a dozen of these devices are attached to the rear of the C-17’s exterior. C-17s equipped with microvanes experience a one-percent reduction in drag (and fuel consumption) compared to their unmodified counterparts.