Boeing/Vertol CH-46 Sea Knight
Summary
| Category | Helicopter |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| First flight | 22 April 1958 |
| Year of introduction | 1964 |
| Number produced | 524 units |
| Average unit price | $14 million |
Description
The CH-46 Sea Knight is a versatile tiltrotor helicopter, primarily used by the United States Marine Corps (USMC) for troop transport, aerial refueling, medical evacuation, and other support missions. Designed by Boeing Vertol in the 1960s, it served as a cornerstone of the US Navy aviation for several decades.
The CH-46 Sea Knight is a medium-sized helicopter powered by two turboshaft engines. Its main rotor, located on top of the aircraft, is capable of tilting 90 degrees, allowing the helicopter to take off and land vertically while providing high cruising speed in airplane mode. This unique capability earned it the nickname "Phrog" (Frog, referring to its leaping ability).
The helicopter can carry up to 25 passengers or 5,000 pounds (2,268 kilograms) of internal cargo. It is equipped with a rear ramp that enables quick loading and unloading of troops and equipment. With its aerial refueling capabilities, the CH-46 can also be used to refuel other helicopters in flight, extending their range and mission duration.
The CH-46 was extensively used during the Vietnam War, playing a crucial role in troop transportation and logistical support. It was utilized for special forces infiltration and exfiltration missions, as well as battlefield medical evacuations. Its ability to operate from aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships made it an ideal choice for maritime operations.
Over the years, the CH-46 has undergone several enhancements and upgrades. The latest version, the CH-46E, features more powerful engines, improved avionics, and modern navigation systems. However, despite these improvements, the helicopter began to show its age, and in 2015, the USMC announced that it would be phased out of service gradually.
The CH-46 has been replaced by the MV-22 Osprey, a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) helicopter that combines the capabilities of a helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft. The Osprey offers greater speed, improved range, and increased troop transport capacity compared to the CH-46. Nevertheless, despite its phased withdrawal from active service, the CH-46 continues to be utilized by other countries, as well as civilian operators for rescue and transportation missions.
Technical specifications
| Version: CH-46A | |
|---|---|
| Crew | 3 + 1 mechanic (+ 2 door-gunners in fight mode) |
| Operational range | 296 km (184 mi) |
| Maximum speed | 266 km/h (165 mph) |
| Wingspan | 16 m (52.5 ft) |
| Height | 5.1 m (16.7 ft) |
| Length | 13.9 m (45.7 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 4267 m (13999 ft) |
| Empty weight | 7047 kg (15536 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 11000 kg (24251 lbs) |
| Climb rate | 10.4 m/s (34.1 ft/s) |
| Powerplant | 2 × turbines General Electric T58-GE-16 delivering 1400 kW |
Current operating countries
No country is operating the CH-46 Sea Knight in 2024.
All operators
Canada • Japan • Sweden • Thailand • United States
Photo of CH-46 Sea Knight
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