The only working copy of the Antonov An-225 was destroyed in 2022. It could carry 190 tons of payload and had a max takeoff weight of 640 tons.
The Lockheed C-5M is largest regularly operating plane. Upgraded C-5s are designated C-5M Super Galaxy. The C-5s were given new General Electric F138-GE-100 (CF6-80C2) engines, pylons and auxiliary power units, and upgrades to aircraft skin and frame, landing gear, cockpit and pressurization systems. Each CF6 engine produces 22% more thrust (50,000 lbf or 220 kN), providing a 30% shorter takeoff, a 38% higher climb rate to initial altitude, an increased cargo load and a longer range.
The C5-M can transport 127 tons or 36 master pallets.
The Stratolaunch rocket carrier an carry an external payload of 250 tons.
Brian Wang is a Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with 1 million readers per month. His blog Nextbigfuture.com is ranked #1 Science News Blog. It covers many disruptive technology and trends including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology.
Known for identifying cutting edge technologies, he is currently a Co-Founder of a startup and fundraiser for high potential early-stage companies. He is the Head of Research for Allocations for deep technology investments and an Angel Investor at Space Angels.
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