Upgraded RAF Chinook operational in Afghanistan
The first upgraded Royal Air Force (RAF) Chinook Mk4 helicopters deployed to Afghanistan in late November, less than six months after their introduction to frontline squadrons, it has been confirmed.
With an initial release to service granted in May 2012, RAF Chinooks crews were able to begin their operational work-up on the Mk 4 before declaring an initial operating capability in June 2012.
This in turn allowed the first RAF crews to operate the Chinook Mk4 in support of UK security operations during the London Olympics from June to September 2012 prior to preparing for their deployment to Afghanistan.
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