First MYII Chinook for Netherlands

Netherlands Ministry of Defence, April 16, 2021 - The first new Chinook transport helicopter was handed over to the Defense Helicopter Command on April 14.

With this, the Air Force is gradually moving towards a modern, future-proof transport helicopter fleet. The handover ceremony was held at Gilze-Rijen Air Base.

Transport helicopters are invaluable in military operations.

Transport helicopter capacity is scarce, both in the Netherlands and abroad. With the replacement and expansion of the Chinook fleet, the training possibilities, the deployability and the sustainability of the armed forces will increase.

The capacity can also be deployed worldwide for national and international partners and in partnerships.

This is the CH-47F MYII CAAS (common avionics architecture system), the standard version of the US Army. The MYII CAAS has a very modern equipped cockpit with accurate navigation equipment.

Thanks to new technologies, the new helicopter fits perfectly in the aim of operating in a more information-driven and networked manner.

For example, the crew can exchange information with other units via a data connection to obtain an up-to-date and accurate picture of the situation. The renewed maintenance system also detects wear and tear at an early stage. This makes earlier and more targeted maintenance possible, which increases availability.

The helicopter has a self-defense package with a missile warning and infrared suppression system. Specific Dutch modifications are the crash-resistant seats in the cockpit and a VHF radio (very high frequency). This is for secure communication with Dutch units.

The aircraft will also receive the fast-rope system for special forces operations. Soldiers can quickly leave a flying Chinook along a rope.