Boeing CH-47 Chinook

Summary

Category	Helicopter
Origin country	🇺🇸 United States
First flight	21 September 1961
Year of introduction	1962
Number produced	1200 units
Average unit price	$38 million

Description

The CH-47 Chinook is a twin-engine, tandem rotor heavy-lift helicopter developed by American aerospace company Boeing. Its origins date back to the early 1960s when it was designed by Boeing Vertol, a company later acquired by Boeing. The primary purpose of the helicopter was to meet the United States Army's need for a fast, reliable air assault and cargo transport vehicle. The first flight took place on September 21, 1961, and it entered service with the U.S. Army in 1962.

The CH-47 Chinook has a distinctive design characterized by its twin turboshaft engines and tandem rotors, which are set up one in front of the other. This configuration eliminates the need for a tail rotor and allows for better lift and stability, especially when carrying heavy payloads. The fuselage has a long, rectangular shape designed to accommodate a wide variety of cargo, including vehicles, artillery, and troops. Its rear ramp can be lowered for quick loading and unloading.

The cockpit is designed for a crew of three: a pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer. Advanced avionics and flight control systems are integrated to assist with navigation, communication, and operational tasks. The rotor blades are made of composite material to withstand varying environmental conditions and enemy fire.

The Chinook is also equipped with multiple hooks and winches to aid in externally carrying cargo or performing aerial lifts.

Operational history

The CH-47 Chinook has an extensive operational history spanning over six decades, and it has participated in a wide range of missions across the globe. It first saw combat in the Vietnam War, where it played a crucial role in the air mobility and rapid deployment of troops, supplies, and equipment. The Chinook proved its worth in high-intensity combat and harsh environments, earning it a reputation for reliability and versatility.

In the years following Vietnam, the Chinook saw service in various other conflicts and operations. During the 1991 Gulf War, it was used for troop transport, logistics, and medical evacuation. In the Balkans during the 1990s, it performed similar roles, particularly during humanitarian operations. The helicopter has also been active in Afghanistan and Iraq, participating in troop movements, resupply missions, and casualty evacuations.

The Chinook has not been limited to combat roles; it has also been involved in numerous humanitarian and disaster relief missions. These include earthquake relief in countries like Pakistan and Haiti, flood relief in the United States, and firefighting efforts in various parts of the world.

Several nations other than the United States, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, have also operated Chinooks. These helicopters have seen action in both national and international conflicts, including peacekeeping missions under United Nations mandates.

Variants

CH-47A: The original production model, which saw action primarily in the Vietnam War. It had limited engine power and was subsequently improved upon.
CH-47B: An upgraded variant with a more powerful engine and other minor modifications, aiming to enhance its lifting capacity and performance.
CH-47C: Similar to the B model but with even more engine power and lift capability. Some versions included additional fuel tanks for extended range.
CH-47D: A significant upgrade that incorporated advanced avionics, more powerful engines, and composite rotor blades. This variant became the U.S. Army's standard until the arrival of the F model.
MH-47D/E: Special Operations variants that include in-flight refueling capabilities, advanced avionics, and improved navigation systems. These are used by the U.S. Army's 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.
CH-47F: The most modern variant, with state-of-the-art avionics, a redesigned cockpit, more robust engines, and advanced cargo-handling capabilities. It's designed for optimal performance in today's complex battle environments.
CH-47J: A version of the helicopter that is produced and used in Japan. It is similar to the CH-47D but has some modifications suited for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force.
HC/MH-1/2/3/4/5/6: These are international variants used by allied countries like the United Kingdom (Chinook HC series), Canada, and Australia. They differ in avionics, equipment, and sometimes in engine types, tailored to the specific requirements of the operating country.

Technical specifications

Version: CH-47D
Crew	2 pilots + 2 ou 3
Operational range	420 km (261 mi)
Maximum speed	315 km/h (196 mph)
Wingspan	18.3 m (60.0 ft)
Height	5.7 m (18.7 ft)
Length	30.1 m (98.8 ft)
Service ceiling	5639 m (18501 ft)
Empty weight	10614 kg (23400 lbs)
Max. takeoff weight	22680 kg (50001 lbs)
Climb rate	10.1 m/s (33.1 ft/s)
Powerplant	2 × turbines Lycoming T55-GA-712 delivering 2796 kW

Current operating countries

Country		Units
	United States	513 (+30)
	Japan	82
	United Kingdom	57 (+14)
	South Korea	43
	Iran	40
	United Arab Emirates	28
	Greece	25
	Italy	22
	Singapore	20 (+11)
	Egypt	19 (+23)
	India	15
	Australia	14
	Canada	14
	Turkey	11
	Netherlands	10 (+3)
	Spain	8 (+13)
	Taiwan	8
	Morocco	3
	Libya	2
	Germany	0 (+60)
	Saudi Arabia	0 (+48)