India bought a total of 15 Chinook helicopters from the US Boeing corporation last year.

The Boeing CH-47F Chinook is an American twin-engined, tandem rotor, heavy-lift helicopter developed by American rotorcraft company Vertol and manufactured by Boeing Vertol (later known as Boeing Rotorcraft Systems). The CH-47F is among the heaviest lifting Western helicopters.

Meanwhile, Israel is a close ally and has a tradition of using American helicopters. There has been speculation that Israel will buy the Chinook, but on February 25, the Israeli Air Force decided to buy the CH-53K King Stallion helicopter.

U.S Army CH-47 Chinook helicopters
U.S Army CH-47 Chinook helicopters

The CH-53K King Stallion is manufactured by the helicopter company Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin. These helicopters will replace the existing Israeli CH-53, also known as the Yasur.

The question is why do Indians buy the Chinook? It is reported that the reason India chose the CH-47F Chinook is because it will ensure the Indian Air Force unprecedented strategic airlifting capabilities, from combat to disaster relief.

The CH-47 Chinook heavy helicopter has a long history, used by the US Army and armies of more than 19 countries around the world. Its reputation is the guarantee of a successful contract. In terms of features, the CH-47F uses a modern glass cockpit, advanced digital flight control systems, to improve crew safety and rapid cargo handling; Allows the crew to switch missions quickly and conveniently.

The CH-47F has a 10-ton payload and is capable of operating at high altitudes, meeting the Indian Air Force’s heavy transport requirements. In addition, the CH-47F can change rapidly from transporting goods to transporting people, vehicles and other materials.

An important mission for India’s CH-47F helicopters is to assist in the construction of infrastructure and border facilities; especially in the northeastern region bordering China, where the terrain is rugged and the climate is harsh.

According to Boeing, the CH-47F allows India to use helicopters in hot climates, high terrain and strong winds, maximizing interoperability and reducing life cycle costs.

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