The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has taken delivery of an additional two CH-47D Chinook transport helicopters from Boeing in Townsville, bringing its total Chinook fleet to seven.
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The additional aircraft, currently deployed to the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO), are expected to reduce pressure on the training and maintenance schedule for the army’s CH-47D fleet, allowing it to better support ongoing operations.
Australia operates the Chinook fleet to ensure continuous service for overseas operations and aircrew training.
Australian defence minister, Stephen Smith, said: "The two helicopters will undergo deep maintenance and modification as per the current Australian CH-47D configuration followed by deliveries to the Army in mid 2012."
The Boeing Chinook CH-47D is a tandem-rotor, heavy-transport lift helicopter designed to transport troops, artillery, ammunition, fuel, water, barrier materials, supplies and equipment in the battlefield.
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By GlobalDataThe Chinook is also used for medical evacuation, disaster relief, search and rescue, aircraft recovery, parachute drops and fire-fighting missions in all weather conditions.
The helicopter is equipped with a T55-GA-714A turboshaft engine and features a triple-hook cargo system that enables it to carry heavy payloads of up to 26,000lb, including the 155mm M198 howitzer and 30 rounds of ammunition, at a speed of 250km/h.
The Chinook features advanced avionics and electronics, including the Global Positioning System (GPS), and can accommodate two high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles (HMMWVs) or a HMMWV together with a 105mm howitzer and gun crew.
The Australian CH-47D fleet is scheduled to be replaced by seven new upgraded CH-47F Chinooks from 2014 to 2017.
Image: Australian Army receives additional two CH-47D Chinook transport helicopters from Boeing.
