What is the total number of patients that a C-17 Globemaster III can carry?

The C-17 Globemaster III is designed to provide rapid strategic airlift of troops and cargo to main operating bases or forward operating bases. When it comes to aeromedical evacuation, the aircraft is capable of carrying a specific combination of litter and ambulatory patients efficiently.

The correct answer indicates that the C-17 can carry 36 litter patients and 54 ambulatory patients. This configuration maximizes the use of space within the aircraft while adhering to safety and comfort standards for the patients, allowing for effective patient management during transport.

The design considers various operational scenarios, ensuring the aircraft can accommodate a substantial number of patients simultaneously. The distinction in patient types—litter patients who require a stretcher and ambulatory patients who can walk or sit—further informs the configuration, providing flexibility for different medical situations.

Other options present different numbers which do not align with the operational specifications provided by the C-17's design and operational manuals, indicating less capacity in terms of both litter and ambulatory patients compared to the selected answer. This underscores the importance of understanding the aircraft’s specific capabilities to ensure optimal healthcare delivery during transportation missions.