Finally, the Defense has launched the program to build four helicopters dedicated to the Italian special forces, we are talking about the Chinook 47 Er (extended range). The aircraft produced by Boeing will be built in the Philadelphia plant, while Leonardo will carry out the maintenance and logistics in the after-sales phase. The Italian version is the same as the Canadian one which allows a long range of action with additional tanks positioned so as not to affect the internal load capacity of the rotary wing aircraft
The Chinook helicopter flew for the first time in the 1961, entered service in the 1962 and it is expected that the latest versions delivered by Boeing to the US Army (CH-47F for US Army and MH47-G for Special Operations) will be still in service in the 2050.
The two tandem rotors allow the Chinook to complete operations impossible with other helicopters. The operation of evacuation of civilians in Albania in the 1997 from the 1 ° "Antares" Regiment of the Italian Army, which with a Chinook transport 149 passengers, of which 6 of crew and 5 of security and 138 of Albanian civilians, from Durres remains memorable in Brindisi.
It is capable of lifting weights above its own weight and flying at altitudes and in extreme weather conditions and visibility for many helicopters.
Its strengths are the rear ramp and load compartment that can carry fully equipped military 50s, or two transport vehicles or external loads of over 11 tons hanging from its three hooks. The MH47-G version is also able to be refueled in flight.
The civilian uses of the Chinook range from relief to land and at sea to the transport of basic necessities, sanitary evacuation and fire fighting. In this last task he demonstrates his supremacy in pouring large quantities of water and in the ability to refuel and return to the fire site in a very short time.
Advantages of the double rotor system
Designed by Frank Piasecki, the helicopter with two rotors configured in tandem has a series of technical advantages that explain the great success of Chinook and its predecessors.
It does not need a tail rotor like other helicopters, so the entire power generated by the engines is used to generate lift (it does not lose the 5-15% of power otherwise absorbed by the tail rotor).
It is more stable in side wind conditions.
It can land on a higher gradient, allowing landings in confined spaces, sheltering enemies more quickly.
The diameter of the rotors is limited - compared to helicopters of equal lift with a single rotor - increasing the possibility of landing on uneven ground.
The absence of a queue facilitates loading and unloading from the rear ramp. The center of gravity can be moved to a larger area, making loading easier. It can make ditches and also turn engines off and on again when it floats. Reduced deflection, allowing for normal underboard activities.