NIJL’s Aircraft Docking Supports Chinook Maintenance in Iraq

Pioneering On-Site Chinook Inspection in Iraq

In a remarkable display of adaptability and technical prowess, the third detachment of the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s 298 Squadron successfully conducted an extensive 320-hour inspection of a CH-47F Chinook helicopter directly in the field at Al-Asad Air Base (AAAB), Iraq.

This significant maintenance operation, typically performed in the Netherlands, underscores the squadron’s commitment to operational readiness in challenging environments.

The 320-Hour Inspection: A Critical Operation

The 320-hour inspection is a comprehensive procedure requiring partial disassembly of the aircraft, including the removal of rotor blades and wheel axles, followed by meticulous cleaning and evaluation of components to ensure airworthiness for subsequent missions.

Traditionally, such inspections are conducted in the Netherlands, with aircraft either rotated back home or serviced by external partners on location. However, logistical constraints and financial considerations necessitated an in-theater solution, leading the squadron’s technical personnel to undertake the task themselves.

Overcoming Challenges in a Deployed Environment

The maintenance team, divided to manage both ongoing operational demands and the inspection, dedicated approximately 1,200 man-hours over a two-week period to complete the task. This expedited timeline, shorter than the usual three to four weeks required in the Netherlands, was achieved by working extended hours without the interruptions typical in a home-base setting.

Conducting such an intricate inspection in a deployed environment presented unique challenges, including potential security threats that could disrupt operations. During the inspection, a security drill prompted personnel to seek shelter in a bunker for about an hour, causing delays and necessitating additional time to locate and secure tools before resuming work. Despite these hurdles, the team’s resilience ensured the successful completion of the inspection, thereby maintaining the squadron’s operational capabilities.

NIJL’s Aircraft Docking: Engineering Smart Maintenance Solutions

At NIJL Aircraft Docking, we take pride in providing the High and Medium Maintenance Platforms that facilitate efficient and safe access to various parts of the CH-47F Chinook. These platforms are engineered with precision, ensuring that even in remote and austere environments, maintenance crews can operate efficiently.

Height-Adjustable and Modular Design

Our platforms are designed with height adjustability, allowing for seamless access to different sections of the Chinook. This ensures ergonomic and safe working conditions for maintenance crews, reducing fatigue and improving efficiency.

Lightweight, Yet Durable Aluminium Construction

Made from high-quality aluminium, our maintenance platforms strike the perfect balance between durability and lightweight construction. This makes them easy to handle, transport, and deploy in various locations, including challenging operational environments like Al-Asad Air Base.

Optimized for Mobility: Perfect Fit in a 20-Foot Container

Understanding the needs of military operations, NIJL has designed these platforms to be fully transportable. The combination of the High and Medium Maintenance Platforms fits perfectly within a standard 20-foot shipping container, making it ideal for missions abroad. This ensures that maintenance teams have access to high-quality equipment no matter where their operations take them.

Enhancing Operational Readiness with Reliable Maintenance Equipment

The success of the 298 Squadron’s in-theater inspection not only demonstrates the technical expertise and adaptability of the Royal Netherlands Air Force personnel but also underscores the critical role of well-designed maintenance equipment in sustaining operational readiness, even in austere environments.

At NIJL, we remain committed to providing innovative, transportable, and efficient maintenance solutions that support military aviation worldwide. Whether in routine home-base operations or challenging deployment settings, our platforms ensure that aircraft like the CH-47F Chinook remain mission-ready at all times.