CH-47D/F Chinook - Netherlands

Just like the Chinooks of many other operators, those of the Royal Netherlands Air Force have seen considerable operational engagement in recent years, Afghanistan having been a major focus. The CH-47D version of this versatile twin-rotor heavy-lift transport helicopter is the primary variant currently operated by the Dutch, on the strength of 298 Squadron at Gilze-Rijen, which falls under the Defence Helicopter Command. The CH-47Ds are a mixture of ex-Canadian and new-build airframes, while six brand-new CH-47F models are now also in service. Dutch Chinook operations have seen the helicopters supporting ground forces in the former Yugoslavia, Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as performing the firefighting mission in support of civil authorities.