Four Chinooks inducted by IAF beef up security at China-Pak border

The new multi-role helicopters will add significant muscle to Indian air force strategic airlift capability along the borders with Pakistan and China. The first four CH-47F(I) helicopters, to be deployed at Chandigarh's Air Force Station 12 Wing, were formally inducted in IAF by Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa today.

The heavy lift helicopters are part of the IAF's September 2015 deal to procure 15 helicopters at the cost of Rs. 8,000 crore. These choppers will be used for swift mobilizations of troops, artillery and other heavy equipment alongwith fuel to far flung areas on the border.

Calling the induction of Chinook as a 'game changer',  Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said on the occasion, " Chinook helicopter can carry out military operations, not only in day but during night too," He also said that another unit will be created for the East in Dinjan (Assam).

Elaborating more on the role of Chinook's, IAF chief said, "Country faces a 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,” added Gupte.

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 their 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 modernization 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 defense 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.