Function: Medium lift assault helicopter, primarily used to move cargo and troops.







History: The CH-46 Sea Knight was first procured in 1964 to meet the medium-lift requirements of the Marine Corps in all combat and peacetime environments since that time. The Sea Knight fleet is currently being maintained until a suitable replacement is approved.







Description: The CH-46D Sea Knight helicopter is used by the Navy for shipboard delivery of cargo and personne. The CH-46E is used by the Marine Corps to provide all-weather, day-or-night assault transport of combat troops, supplies and equipment. Troop assault is the primary function and the movement of supplies and equipment is secondary. Additional tasks may be assigned, such as combat support, search and rescue, support for forward refueling and rearming points, aeromedic evacuation of casualties from the field and recovery of aircraft and personnel.







General Characteristics, CH-46D/E Sea Knight





Contractor:

Boeing Vertol Company







Power Plant:

Two GE-T58-16 engines







Thrust:

1,770 horsepower







Length:

45 feet, 8 inches (13.89 meters) with rotors folded



84 feet, 4 inches (25.7 meters) with rotors spread







Height:

16 feet, 8 inches (5.08 meters)







Rotor Diameter:

51 feet (15.54 meters)







Maximum Takeoff Weight:

24,300 pounds (11,032 kilograms)







Speed:

145 knots (166.75 mph)













Ceiling:

10,000 feet plus







Range:

132 nautical miles (151.8 miles) for land assault mission







Crew:

Four: pilot, copilot, crew chief, mechanic







Payload:

Combat: maximum of 22 troops and two aerial gunners



Medical evacuation: 15 litters, two attendants



Cargo: 5,000 pounds (2270 kilograms) maximum







Introduction Date:

January 1978