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The Indian Air Force (IAF) began the trials of the C-17 strategic lift aircraft on Monday. According to IAF sources, the trials, which could last up to a week, are scheduled to conclude by Thursday and will include operational demonstrations in high altitude and hot, desert environments. The aircraft will be required to land in high altitude airfields, switch off and take off again. Load carrying capability, especially at such airfields, is also likely to be tested, either with dummy cargo or simulation of payload by carriage of additional fuel. The expeditionary landing and take off ability of the aircraft on short, unpaved airstrips is also likely to be examined hands-on by IAF pilots. The IAF is considering the purchase of ten C-17s, which would make it the second largest operator of the aircraft.
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