The Indian Air Force commissioned first four Boeing CH-47F(I) Chinook heavy-lift helicopters on 25 March.
According to a statement released by the India Air Force, first four Chinook helicopters were inducted during the official ceremony at Air Force Station, Chandigarh, in Squadron No 126 Helicopter Flight (Featherweights).
Also noted that the helicopters which had come from the US ahead of time arrived in a semi-knocked down (SKD) condition at Mundra Port in Gujarat, were re-assembled and tested before the formal induction today.
On September 28, 2015, the Indian Ministry of Defense signed a package of contracts worth $ 3 billion for the purchase of 22 AH-64E Apache Guardian combat helicopters and 15 CH-47F (I) Chinook transport helicopters with the US government and Boeing Corporation. Contract options include 11 more AN-64E helicopters and seven CH-47F (I) helicopters.
The CH-47F (I) Chinook is an advanced multi-mission helicopter operated by the U.S. Army and 18 other defense forces. The Chinook has proven its ability to operate in the range of conditions that typify the Indian subcontinent, including delivering heavy payloads to high altitudes.
India is the 19th nation to select the Chinook.
According to Boeing, India ultimately will receive 15 CH-47F(I) Chinook transport helicopters.
#DidYouKnow: The CH-47F #Chinook contains a fully Integrated, Digital Cockpit Management System, Common Aviation Architecture Cockpit & advanced cargo-handling capabilities that complement the aircraft’s mission performance & handling characteristics.
Photo Courtesy–@Boeing_In pic.twitter.com/1YVdm9CRFI— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) 25 March 2019
