1996/06 - First heavy lift helicopter

Helicopters

AS-332 Super Puma

CH-47 Chinook

Year

1996

The RSAF introduced CH-47 Chinooks, boosting airlift, SAR, and defence capabilities with greater range and load capacity.

By the early 1990s, the expansion of the Army’s roles and responsibilities necessitated a better airlift capability. This led to the acquisition of the battle-proven CH-47 Chinook helicopters, which were assigned to 127 Squadron at Sembawang Air Base and had greater range and carriage capacity. The helicopters represent a significant step up for the RSAF’s Search and Rescue (SAR) and overall defence capabilities.

Chinook helicopter flying against a blue, cloudy sky with a Singapore flag.

The Chinook is operated by 127 Squadron, which was inaugurated by Minister for Education and Second Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean.

Chinook helicopter lifting a military vehicle via cables over a forested area.

The rotary-winged Chinook helicopter is used for troop lift and mission support for the SAF.

“To maintain our reputation worldwide as a first-class Air Force, we must upgrade our SAR capabilities. That is very important. The Chinooks will give us additional capability for SAR purposes. It will extend the range that our current Super Pumas can cover, and increase the load that the helicopters will be able to carry.”

Dr Yeo Ning Hong, Minister for Defence, 1994 on the benefits of having the Chinooks in the RSAF’s rotary wing