Combat Air Lift

KHOST PROVINCE, Afghanistan– International Security Assistance Force Soldiers used specialized equipment, CH-47 Chinook and UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters, for troop mobilization and delivering critical supplies throughout the sprawling eastern mountain ranges of Afghanistan, March 3.
                   
The Chinook load ranges from 2,000 to 14,000 lbs, and the cargo varies from containers of equipment to platoons of soldiers.

"The CH-47 is the primary means of transport here in the Afghanistan area of operations", said U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Lance M. Brennan, CH-47 pilot, B Company, 1 st Battalion, 169 th Aviation Regiment, from Midway, Ga. "We support the ISAF mission in Afghanistan by moving ground units directly into the fight."

Chinook and Blackhawk aircrews also help the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance community by providing aerial observation before, during and after troop or supply movement.

"Part of my flying duties are to help the troops on the ground by providing air security and overwatch during their missions", said U.S. Army Spc. Wayne Bertino, a UH-60 Blackhawk crew chief, A Co., 4-3 Combat Aviation Brigade, from Tappan, NY. "When necessary, we gain and maintain contact with insurgents in accordance with the rules of engagement."

With a carrying capacity at 11 passengers max, the Blackhawk cargo and the is noticeably smaller than the Chinook, but the airframe finds its place in the armory. It’s smaller size and high maneuverability areassets when operating at the lower altitudes.

Both helicopters provide assistance to ISAF, the Afghan National Army, the Afghan National Police and other Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan partners who need air support.

"The ANA, ANP, and other GiROA partners are progressively becoming more involved in the counterinsurgency fight" said Miller. "We try to provide the same level of air support for troop movement and resupply, to our partners."

According to flight crews, having the Chinooks and Blackhawk helicopters to transport personnel and deliver supplies quickly and safely makes them vital to the success of ISAF and its GIRoA missions.