Helicopter Aircraft
Chinook HC2/3/4/5/6
The Chinook is an able and versatile support helicopter that can be armed with crew served weapons to provide self-defence, and can be operated from land or ship in such diverse environments as the Arctic, jungle and desert. Chinook aircraft are used for trooping, resupply, and battlefield Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC), and for carrying internal and/or underslung loads. They can carry up to 55 troops (more, usually 24 to 40) and/or up to 10 tonnes of freight. A secondary role includes Search and Rescue (SAR). In Afghanistan, the aircraft has become known for its emergency response role, in which the rear of the aircraft can essentially be used as an emergency operating theatre. The crew usually consists of two pilots and two crewmen, supplemented by other specialists depending on the specific task. The Mk3 incorporates long range fuel tanks which greatly increase range and endurance. The Mk4 sees the introduction of a new cockpit display system, mission management system and enhanced crewman’s workstation that further increases the aircraft’s capability. (When the Mk3s are fitted with updated avionics they will be designated Mk5, just as the Mk2s will morph into Mk4s.) The Mk6 is a new buy of 14 aircraft differing in structure to the previous marks. They will incorporate a new Digital Automatic Flight Control System (DAFCS) and the updated cockpit of the Mk4 and 5. They arrived in the UK in 2013. Taken from Royal Air Force Royal Air Force, Ministry of Defence © Crown Copyright 2017 |
Puma HC2
The Puma HC2 is an upgraded version of the original Puma HC1. This upgrade brings the workhorse of the UK’s medium battlefield helicopter fleet into the modern era. With more powerful engines, greater range and a modern digital cockpit, the Puma HC2 will be capable of operating in harsh environments, lifting troops, supplies and humanitarian aid to where it is needed. An upgraded self-defence suite and ballistic protection for crew and passengers also means that this helicopter will be well protected in hostile areas. The aircraft can be prepared for transport inside an RAF C-17 in just 4 hours, flown across the globe, rebuilt and flying just as quickly at the other end – truly a mobile battlefield helicopter to support the UK Defence Mission wherever it may be required. Twenty-four Puma HC1 Helicopters aircraft were converted into Puma HC2s in 2013. Taken from Royal Air Force Royal Air Force, Ministry of Defence © Crown Copyright 2017 |
Griffin HAR2
The Griffin HAR2 is used as multi-role helicopter by 84 Squadron at RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus. The Squadron operates three aircraft, supplied and maintained by civilian company FB Heliservices, and operated by experienced military aircrews. The HAR2 is used for Search and Rescue, both over sea and mountainous terrain. Equipped with night-vision goggles and the Griffin’s FLIR/TV turret, the crews are capable of conducting operations at night. Due to the hot climate, the HAR2 is regularly required to provide a vital fire fighting capability using 84 Squadron’s Bambi Bucket water drop system. The electrical hoist will lift three personnel and the cabin will accommodate two stretcher casualties. With full life-support equipment available in the cabin, the paramedic-trained winch men can provide the highest level of patient care en-route to hospital. In the Support Helicopter role, the Griffin HAR2 carries six (eight if operationally essential) fully equipped troops in the dustiest of conditions. The Griffin is also used in its HT1 and HAR2 forms by The Defence Helicopter Flying School (DHFS) at RAF Shawbury and the Search and Rescue Training Unit (SARTU) at RAF Valley. Taken from Royal Air Force (adapted) Royal Air Force, Ministry of Defence © Crown Copyright 2017 |
Aircraft |
Engines |
Thrust |
Max Speed |
Length |
Max Altitude |
Span |
Aircrew |
Chinook HC2/3/4/5/6 |
Two Honeywell 55-L-714A Freeturbine |
4,168shp each |
160kts |
30.14m |
15,000ft |
18.23m |
4 |
Puma HC2 |
Two Turbomeca Makila 1A1 turbines |
1,800shp each |
167kts |
14.08m |
19,700ft |
15.09m |
3 |
Griffin HAR2 |
Two Pratt & Whitney PT6T-3D Turboshafts |
900shp each |
140kts |
17.11m |
20,000ft |
14.02m |
3 (day) 5 (night) |
© Air Cadet 101 - Harry Briggs