Not Army.... MARINE! Big difference
The army flys CH-47s
Marines flew CH-46s
Both made by Boeing Vertol. Both share many avionic components as well. The 47 is the larger of the two, but unable to operate effectively from ships. The Marine 46 has rotor brake and blade fold ability for shipboard use and is a bit smaller and more maneuverable than its larger cousin.
While the C-130, CH-47 and many other types have been in service for many years, the CH-46 is the elder statesman in that its original airframes are the oldest in the inventory. Production stopped in 72' I believe and the same airframes (with rework) are still serving today. To my knowledge they are the longest serving original airframes that the military has had. Others have served longer but production runs were longer and in some cases continue to a degree. My plane, which is still serving, has 9-9-69 stamped on its data plate. The 46 is really the unsung hero (mistaken and forgotten) because it is overshadowed by the 47 and the Osprey. When I was assigned to HMM-266 back in 86' I was unhappy to be in this airframe. However, it was the start of a great love affair. Looking back, I wouldnt change a thing. She was and still is IMHO one of the greatest aircraft ever devised. I would put her Full Mission Capable status up against any aircraft in the inventory. Simply amazing design and dependability. I thought I was dead on a couple occasions but she always brought me home. I operated them in the artic circle to the deserts of the mid east. In all cases she was ready to go. The Marine Corps uses the term "any climb, any place" This old battle axe certainly fit the bill. Dependable and always ready. Semper Fi old girl!
