The Boeing CH-47 Chinook is an American tandem-rotor military transport helicopter. It carries troops and cargo and supports evacuation, special operations and disaster relief. The prototype first flew on 21 September 1961.[1][2]
Early service
The United States Army received its first Chinook in 1962, and the type entered combat in Vietnam in 1965. Production and development remained centred in the Philadelphia area. Successive upgrades increased capability while preserving the recognisable tandem-rotor arrangement, allowing the programme to continue through changing military transport requirements.[1]
Transport layout
The two main rotors support a long cargo fuselage with a rear loading ramp. The aircraft can carry internal cargo or external loads, giving operators flexibility when equipment is too large or unsuitable for cabin loading. Its rear access and ability to operate from unprepared terrain support troop movement, resupply and humanitarian missions.[2]
Modernisation and special operations
The CH-47F programme modernised earlier Chinooks with extensive changes to the aircraft and its systems. The related MH-47 branch serves special operations requirements. Although both retain the tandem-rotor form, mission equipment and configuration differ, so the general Chinook name should not be taken to imply that every version has identical performance or operating equipment.[1]
Block II development
Boeing announced delivery of the first Army CH-47F Block II in July 2024. The configuration introduced an improved drivetrain, reinforced airframe and revised fuel system. Boeing reported an increase of 4,000 pounds in maximum gross weight and improvements in mission radius across most payload conditions. The work also addressed maintenance and future upgrade capacity, extending the established transport design through changes to its structure and supporting systems.[3]