CH-47F(I) Chinook

CH-47F(I) Chinook

Type: Heavy-Lift Helicopter

Domain: air

Country of Origin: United States

Manufacturer: Boeing

First Deployed: 2019

Overview

The CH-47F(I) Chinook is the only heavy-lift helicopter in the Indian inventory, with 15 aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force. Procured specifically for the Himalayan theater, the Chinook fills the critical logistics and artillery positioning gap that no indigenous or previously operated helicopter could address. The tandem-rotor design provides exceptional payload at high altitude, enabling sling-loading of M777 Ultra Lightweight Howitzers and their ammunition to mountain positions inaccessible by road. During the 2020 Galwan Valley crisis, Chinooks played a key role in the rapid military buildup along the LAC, airlifting troops and equipment to forward positions. The aircraft also supports disaster relief operations across the Himalayan states and HADR missions. With capacity for 33–55 troops or 12,700 kg sling load, it is irreplaceable for India high-altitude military operations.

Technical Specifications

crew3 (two pilots + flight engineer)
engines2x Honeywell T55-GA-714A turboshaft (4,168 shp each)
capacity33–55 troops
max_speed315 km/h
fleet_size15 aircraft (IAF)
payload_sling~12,700 kg
rotor_diameter18.29 m (both rotors)
payload_internal~10,886 kg

Operators

Related air Weapon Systems