The latest delivery of the US Army's new CH-47F Block II Chinook marks a milestone in the modernization of the service's heavy-lift helicopter fleet.

The US Army on April 29 received its fourth production CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopter as part of an initial order inked in 2021 for nine aircraft. Deliveries began last June.

As the most advanced evolution of the Chinook platform, the Block II variant brings transformative upgrades that focus on increased payload capacity and expanded range.

The aircraft can carry a maximum gross weight of 24,494kg, a substantial increase enabled by a redesigned drivetrain and airframe that reduce vibration and structural fatigue.

It includes the addition of a redesigned fuel system known as the Lightweight Fuel System, which improves fuel efficiency while reducing weight. Upgraded fuel tanks and more efficient engines allow for longer missions without refueling, providing greater operational flexibility in contested and remote environments.

Meanwhile, the Advanced Chinook Rotor Blade offers increased lift, while the new Digital Automatic Flight Control System provides pilots with better handling and situational awareness in high-stress environments.

The Block II also incorporates new ballistic protection to enhance survivability.

An improved avionics package, known as the Common Avionics Architecture System, modernizes the helicopter's digital systems, ensuring greater integration with other aircraft and command networks.

Fast and capable

Introduced in the 1960s, the Chinook is one of the largest and most iconic military helicopters in the world and provides critical troop transport and heavy lift capabilities to the US Army.

The Chinook is the fastest helicopter in the US Army, with top speeds exceeding 300km/h. Its speed is remarkably unencumbered by its capacity for heavy loads -- including personnel, vehicles and equipment -- at high altitudes and in hot environments.

At its maximum, the CH-47 can transport 36 personnel, including the minimum three-man crew and 33 outfitted soldiers. These soldiers can parachute or fast rope into a contested environment.

Meanwhile, the Chinook's center hook enables it to haul equipment like the M198 howitzer and its associated ammo and crew. With its fast-lift capabilities, the helicopter can rapidly reposition the howitzer for aggressive strikes throughout the battlefield, in addition to improving viability and lethality.

Over the decades, the Chinook has supported a wide range of missions, including disaster relief, search and rescue, firefighting and heavy construction assistance.

The Chinook frequently participates in joint training exercises with international partners, enhancing interoperability and readiness.

For example, during Intrepid Maven 25.2 in February, the US Marine Corps and the United Arab Emirates' Presidential Guard conducted joint operations that highlighted the Chinook's critical role in rapid troop transport and precision resupply in contested environments.