The first four CH-47F(I) helicopters, to be deployed at Chandigarh's Air Force Station 12 Wing, were formally inducted into the IAF by Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa today. The new multi-role helicopters will add significant muscle to Indian Air force strategic airlift capability along the borders with Pakistan and China.
The heavy-lift helicopters are part of the IAF's September 2015 deal to procure 15 helicopters at Rs 8,000 crore. These choppers will be used for swift mobilisation of troops, artillery and other heavy equipment along with fuel to far-flung areas on the border.
Calling the induction of Chinook a 'game changer', Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa said, "Chinook helicopter can carry out military operations, not only in the day but at night, too." He also said that another unit will be created for the east in Dinjan (Assam).
Elaborating on the role of Chinooks, the IAF chief said, "The country faces multiple security challenges. We require vertical lift capability across a diversified terrain. Chinook has been procured with India-specific enhancements. This modern, multi-mission-capable, heavy-lift transport helicopter will enhance our heli-lift capability across all types of terrain to full effect. It's a national asset."
“Chinook can deliver heavy payloads to high altitudes and is eminently suited for operations in the high Himalayas. It will greatly enhance India’s capabilities across a range of military and HADR missions,” IAF said in a statement on Twitter.
“The CH-47F(I) Chinook will prove to be a significant force multiplier for the Indian Air Force,” said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India. “We are committed to working closely with the defence forces and government of India to deliver the right value and capabilities,” he said.
The CH-47F(I) Chinook for the Indian Air Force completed successful first-flights in July 2018. The first batch of Indian Air Force crew began its training to fly the Chinook in the US in October 2018.
Four Chinooks arrived at the Mundra Port in Gujarat in February this year, ahead of schedule and the remaining CH-47F(I) will continue to be delivered as per schedule, Boeing said in a statement.
“With its advanced capabilities and versatility, we are confident that the CH-47F(I) Chinook will be an important asset to the Indian Air Force,” said Michael Koch, vice president, India, Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “Boeing remains committed to working closely with India to support the modernisation of its armed forces and fulfil the country’s current and future security goals,” added Koch.
The CH-47F is an advanced multi-mission helicopter for the US Army and international defence forces. It contains a fully integrated, digital cockpit management system, Common Aviation Architecture and advanced cargo-handling capabilities that enhance the aircraft's mission performance and handling characteristics.
It is used by the US Army, US Army Reserve, National Guard and by the armed forces of more than 19 countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Japan, Italy, Greece, Spain, South Korea, Australia and the United Arab Emirates.
