The Indian Air Force (IAF) has inducted the first batch of four Chinook CH-47F(I) heavy-lift helicopters, which will significantly improve airlift to high-altitude areas.
Key Facts:
- The induction of Chinook will be a game changer the way Rafale is going to be in the fighter fleet.
- These four helicopters are 15 Chinook helicopters IAF is purchasing from US (manufactured by Boeing) as part of Rs. 8000 crore deal signed in 2015.
- The entire fleet of 15 Chinooks are expected to arrive in India by 2020.
- The second unit of these helicopters come up at Dinjan, Assam and will fortify India’s eastern border with China.
About CH-47F (I) Chinook helicopter:
- It is modern, multi-mission-capable, heavy-lift transport helicopter will enhance our heli-lift capability across all types of terrain to the full effect.
- It is named after Native American Chinook people of modern-day Washington state of US.
- It has fully integrated digital cockpit management system. It possesses several means of loading various cargoes.
- The Chinook can carry a maximum payload of 11 tonnes and 54 combat-ready troops or 24 stretcher patients.
Source:The Hindu