Wow! Indian Air Force gets combat helicopter Chinook CH-47F (I) from US, has India link too; this flying machine is amazing
Proud moment! In a significant event for the country that will strengthen our national security further, our guardian in the sky, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has inducted the first batch of the Chinook CH-47F (I) helicopters. The Chinook is a heavy lift, tandem rotor helicopter which will provide the Indian Air Force with strategic airlift capability, across all spectrum of combat. The helicopter will also come to aid in humanitarian missions and rescue operations.
Chinook CH-47F (I): The Game Changer
The Chinook CH-47F (I) has the capacity to carry maximum 11 tonnes and 45 troops payload, with additional 10 tonnes of under-slung load.It has an overall gross weight of 22,680 kg, with a body length along with the rotors of 30.14m and a height of 5.68m. Moreover, each of the rotor span to a length of 18.29m each, that will cut through the wind when on flight. The fuselage or the main body of the chopper is 15.46m in length and 3.78m wide. Image source: IANS
The cockpit is completely integrated digitally, allowing the pilot to get a cruise speed of 291km/hour, with a maximum speed of 302km/hour. The helicopter is fueled by a fuel capacity of 20,411kg, with 36,700kg of maximum gross take off capacity. The chopper will have a mission radius, that is the space around the Chinook Ch-47F (I), is 370.4km while having a service ceiling of 20,000 feet, that is the specified rate of climb the helicopter can have. Image source: IANS
Chinook CH-47F (I): Timeline
India had signed a contract for 15 Boeing Chinooks in September 2015, at an estimated cost over RS 8,000 crore. After 3 years, in July, CH-47F (I) Chinook completed its first flight. Image source: IANS
Indian Air Force received its first CH-47F (I) Chinook last month in Mudra port, Gujarat. Furthermore, India is expecting an entire fleet of 15 Chinooks to arrive by this time next year. This fleet will be the second unit and will be based in Assam, to fortify the eastern borders. Image source: IANS
Chinook CH-47F (I): India Connection
Large sections of the aerostructure of the chopper was manufactured in India. Further, parts like the ramps and pylon were also built by Indian suppliers. Image source: IANS
Chinook CH-47F (I): IAF Chief Dhanoa reaction
Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, at the ceremony held at Air Force Station Chandigarh, said, " The induction of Chinook is an asset to the Indian Air Force's airlift capabilities. These helicopter can carry out military operations not only during the day but at night too. Introduction of Chinooks will be a game changer." Image source: IANS