Evaluation of the Production CH-47D Adverse Weather Cockpit (AWC) Aerial Refueling System

摘要

For this evaluation, eight flights were conducted for a total of 11.9 flight hours, 8.5 of which were productive, with 106 probe-to-drogue contacts and 18,160 pounds of fuel transferred. Level flight performance tests, aerial refueling tests and aerial refueling system tests were conducted by the contractor and were witnessed by Army Aviation Engineering Flight Activity(AEFA) personnel. No drag increment determination could be made from the inconclusive level flight test data. The contractor intends to analytically estimate the external drag of the aerial refueling system. The AEFA evaluation included day, night unaided vision and night aided vision aerial refueling operations using Aviator Night Vision Imaging System (ANVIS-6) night vision goggles with U.S.A.F. HC-130P tanker aircraft. Tests included a tanker proximity wake turbulence evaluation of the handling qualities in the refueling environment including off-center disconnects and non-responsive hose operations. One enhancing characteristic, one deficiency and three shortcomings, one of which was identified on a previous evaluation of the standard CH-47D, were noted. The aerial refueling lighting system is an enhancing characteristic. The requirement to have the battery switch ON in order to single-point refuel on the ground is a deficiency. The inability to select anything other than full bright on the refueling probe light and refueling searchlight during initial filament activation is a shortcoming. The CH-47D AWC helicopter incorporating the Boeing Helicopters production aerial refueling system is suitable for day and night aerial refueling operations. (sdw) -