CH-47D Chinook (USA)
United States Army

CH-47D Chinook
Operator: 4th Aviation
Location: Butts Army Airfield, Fort Carson, Colorado (USA)
Timeframe: 1991-1993

Personal Interest:
During my tour at Ft. Carson, several CH-47D Chinook heavy lift helicopters were operated by 4th Aviation. Capable of speeds up to 200 mph, the Chinook was well-suited for use as an infantry troop transport. The Chinook was also a prime mover of towed artillery. Because live fire drills frequently started brush fires on the Fort Carson reservation, CH-47Ds were used to carry water for fire-fighting operations.

The venerable CH-47D was pressed into service for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan following the 9/11 attacks. Its lift capacity was particularly valuable in the mountainous terrain of Afghanistan, where high altitudes and temperatures limit the use of helicopters such as the UH-60 Black Hawk. Reportedly, one Chinook can replace up to five UH-60s in the air assault transport role. Regrettably, the CH-47D was susceptible to Taliban ground fire, particularly rocket propelled grenades, which resulted in many of the war's casualties.