Boeing Chinook HC2 / HC2A / HC3
in
Royal Air Force
Del'd 49 · Service : 1993 to present
Chinook HC.2 / HC.2A / HC.3 based on the CH-47D are listed here.
For the RAF Chinook history see HC1
The Chinook HC2 was a significant upgrade of earlier Royal Air Force (RAF) Chinook variants, featuring more powerful engines and improved avionics. The HC2A was largely similar, with the primary difference being a strengthened front fuselage, allowing for the potential future fitment of an aerial refueling probe. Both the HC2 and HC2A became the workhorse of the RAF's heavy-lift capabilities, participating in various operations worldwide.
The Chinook HC3, distinct from the HC2/2A, was procured as a specialized variant for Special Forces operations. It featured enlarged sponsons for increased fuel capacity, night vision sensors, and enhanced navigation equipment, making it akin to the US Army's MH-47E. However, due to significant contractual and certification issues, these aircraft were delivered in 2001 but did not enter full operational service until much later, after a costly "Fix to Field" program was eventually abandoned in favor of reverting some avionics to HC2/2A specification.
Under Project Julius, upgraded HC2/2A and HC3 aircraft were redesignated HC4 and HC5 respectively.
The Chinook HC2 was a significant upgrade of earlier Royal Air Force (RAF) Chinook variants, featuring more powerful engines and improved avionics. The HC2A was largely similar, with the primary difference being a strengthened front fuselage, allowing for the potential future fitment of an aerial refueling probe. Both the HC2 and HC2A became the workhorse of the RAF's heavy-lift capabilities, participating in various operations worldwide.
The Chinook HC3, distinct from the HC2/2A, was procured as a specialized variant for Special Forces operations. It featured enlarged sponsons for increased fuel capacity, night vision sensors, and enhanced navigation equipment, making it akin to the US Army's MH-47E. However, due to significant contractual and certification issues, these aircraft were delivered in 2001 but did not enter full operational service until much later, after a costly "Fix to Field" program was eventually abandoned in favor of reverting some avionics to HC2/2A specification.
Under Project Julius, upgraded HC2/2A and HC3 aircraft were redesignated HC4 and HC5 respectively.
Units
| 2015- | 28 Squadron |
| 1995-2006 | 78 Squadron |
| 1995- | 18 Squadron |
| 1995- | 1310 (Tactical Support) Flight |
| 1993- | 27 Squadron |
| 1993- | 7 Squadron |
Platforms
| LH Ocean class |
| L Albion class |
| L Bay class |
| AO Tide class |
| AO Diligence class |
News
- Apr 11, 2020 · RAF Chinook Recognized with Kossler Award
- Jul 18, 2018 · RAF Chinooks Deployed to Mali
- Apr 27, 2018 · Chinook Visits Historical RAF Germany Bases
- Feb 8, 2018 · Chinook First Time On HMS Queen Elizabeth Hangar
- Oct 3, 2017 · Vector 35 Years Servicing the Chinook
- Jun 28, 2017 · Boeing Recognized Vector for Chinook Support
- Oct 23, 2015 · Chinooks Arrive At RAF Benson
- Oct 20, 2015 · QinetiQ to Support RAF Chinook Upgrade
- Mar 25, 2015 · Vector Aerospace Repaired RAF Chinook
- Nov 28, 2011 · Royal Air Force CH-47 Chinook upgraded simulator at CAE’s MSHATF
- Jan 24, 2011 · Boeing Begins Flight Testing UK Chinook Mk4
- Dec 18, 2009 · Boeing Delivers 1st Mk3 Chinook to UK Royal Air Force
- Jul 7, 2009 · Modified Boeing Chinook Mk3 Completes 1st Test Flight
- Mar 14, 2007 · Boeing Assumes Lead Role in UK Chinook Support Program
- May 22, 2006 · Boeing Support Systems to Keep UK Chinook Helicopters Flying