The U.S. Army has taken delivery of the first CH-47F Block II Chinook from Boeing. The iconic tandem-rotor helicopter is one of up to 465 in the Army’s fleet that will be modernised to the new Block II configuration.
“The CH-47F Block II provides capability improvements allowing the U.S. Army to lift more, fly farther and maintain their aircraft better than ever before,” said Heather McBryan, vice president and program manager, Cargo Programs.
“This modernisation program enables the battle-tested Chinook to play a key role in multi-domain operations going forward.”
IMPROVEMENTS
The CH-47F Block II has an improved drivetrain, a reinforced airframe and enhanced fuel system, provides for an additional 1,800 kg of max gross weight and extends the mission radius for nearly all payloads.
The new Chinook has been designed to enable upgrades as advances in technology are made.
“As the Army’s Heavy Lift platform of tomorrow, the CH-47F Block II provides increased capability while continuing support of the Army’s requirement to remain strategically responsive across the full spectrum of operations,” said Viva Kelly, U.S. Army Cargo Helicopters acting project manager.
Aside from the U.S. Army the H-47 Chinook is used by 20 international operators including Australia.
The tandem-rotor design gives increased stability and control, maximum agility, ease of loading and unloading and outstanding performance in wind.
Put simply, the Chinook can operate where others can’t.
Tail rotor clearance is not a concern so rear ramp access on any almost any terrain is possible. The Chinook can reach up to 20,000 feet, higher than other helicopters in its class.
It’s one helluva flying machine.