Photo: Royal Air Force Odiham, an hour’s drive southwest of London, is home to two Chinook squadrons on alert for overseas deployment or emergency response. SEPTEMBER 2016 | 25 and navy personnel. To experience a harsh desert environment, however, RAF Chinook crews are sent to a U.S. military base in El Centro, Calif., for certification. They work with American troops and no shortage of dust. Nearly 850 Chinooks are in use today in 19 countries. The double-rotor helicopter keeps evolving and won’t easily give in to time. New engines, blades and lift capabilities are in development. The U.S. Army publicly has stated it wants new helicopters through 2065. Dabundo, the Chinook program manager, expects production of the storied aircraft to extend well into the 2070s. Those who operate and maintain it at RAF Odiham share a similar vision. “The Chinook is going to be around when my kids are flying—and they’re not born yet,” Flight Lt. Chris W. Dodd said. “It’s going to be the next B-52. It’ll be flying for 100 years.” • DANIEL.W.RALEY@BOEING.COM
Frontiers September 2016 Issue
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