Boeing delivered the first MH-47G Chinook helicopter to the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command on Sept. 29.
The new build MH-47G configuration incorporates a number of production improvements to include the digital advanced flight control system, more robust, improved monolithic machined-frames, and improved air transportability.
The entire program, valued at approximately $300 million, will deliver 8 Chinnoks through 2015.
The MH-47G Chinook is a heavy assault helicopter based on the MH-47E airframe, featuring the same basic fuselage, fuel system, power train, engines and performance standards as the “Echo” model.
It has further structural modifications including a new cockpit with an extended nose and technological enhancements for special operations missions.
The "Gulf" model also has multi-mode radar to navigate challenging environments and dangerous terrain; a Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System (FRIES) for insertion of personnel and equipment and extraction of personnel; a defensive armament system with two M-134 “Minigun” machine guns and one M-60D machine gun; and an external rescue hoist.
The U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (ARSOAC), activated on 25th March 2011, organizes, mans, trains, resources and equips Army special operations aviation units to provide responsive, special operations aviation support to Special Operations Forces.
