The huge twin-rotor Boeing Chinook first flew in prototype form way back in 1961, but modernised versions are still being produced - there is little else that quite matches up. The RAF is the type's biggest operator outside the US Army, its fleet comprising a mixture of variants - the HC2, HC2A and HC3 models are undergoing an upgrade programme which will see them becoming the HC4, HC4A and HC5 respectively, joined by new-build HC6 versions. The Chinooks make for a potent heavy-lift helicopter force, able to transport up to 10 tonnes of freight - internally or underslung from hooks - or 55 troops. They have been worked particularly hard in Afghanistan, providing outstanding support to British and other coalition troops on the ground.
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