RAF Chinook HC.6
Boeing / Leonardo Helicopters · United Kingdom · first flew 2014 · helicopter
The HC.6 is the RAF's current Chinook standard, an F-model airframe with UK-specific avionics, defensive aids, and extended-range fuel modifications for the support helicopter mission.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 15.54 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | No tailplane |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- RAF desert pink or olive drab paint scheme and UK roundel markings; US Army F-models wear OD green
- Extended-range fuel tanks and UK-specific Electronic Warfare suite distinguishable by additional blade antenna placements
- Operates exclusively from RAF Odiham under 7, 18 and 27 Sqn — the only Chinooks in UK military service
Same twin-tandem-rotor silhouette as all Chinooks; identified as RAF by Union Flag and squadron markings, desert pink camouflage in deployed roles, and the Odiham base allocation. The CAAS glass cockpit and UK EW antenna layout distinguish it from US Army F-models at close range.
Specifications
- The RAF Chinook HC.6 has a length of 15.54 m (51 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 18.29 m (60 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 315 km/h (196 mph).
- Typical crew: 3–5.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The RAF's Chinook force has been based at Odiham since 1981, evolving through HC.1, HC.2, HC.4, and HC.5 to the HC.6 upgrade programme completed by 2020. Each increment added digital cockpits, defensive electronic warfare systems, and performance improvements, with conversion managed in cooperation with Boeing and UK industry.
Variants
All HC variants are counted as a single RAF family; the HC.6A adds further survivability enhancements. A small number of HC.5 aircraft remain alongside HC.6 in the mixed fleet.
Where you'll see it
Nos. 7, 18 and 27 Squadrons operate the HC.6 from RAF Odiham, supporting British Army field operations, disaster relief, and special forces tasks; the type has served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Falklands.
Related aircraft
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