The Netherlands has taken delivery of the first CH-47F MYII Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS). In 2015, the country decided to replace 11 CH-47Ds, upgrade six CH-47Fs to the MYII CAAS standard and procure three new aircraft.
The new CH-47F corresponds to the US Army’s standard version with a modern cockpit and precise navigation aids. The communication equipment enables constant data exchange to get an up-to-date and accurate situational awareness. The new maintenance system also detects signs of wear at an early stage. The Netherlands added a self-protection package with a missile warning and infrared suppression system, crash-proof seats in the cockpit and a Very High Frequency (VHF) radio for secure communication with Dutch units. The aircraft will also be equipped with a Fast Rope system for the deployment of special forces. Delivery of the 19 other aircraft is expected to be complete by mid-2022.
Gerhard Heiming
