The United States Army Special Operations Command is studying the possibility of turning the MH-47 Chinook helicopters used by the Night Stalkers into aerial refueling platforms.
The idea is part of the initial studies for the future MH-47 Block III, a modernized version of the aircraft expected to enter service from 2032. If the concept moves forward, the helicopters could refuel other aircraft in midair, reducing dependence on U.S. Air Force tanker aircraft.
The project is linked to SOCOM’s search for greater operational range, modularity and flexibility in modern combat scenarios. Command officials said the future version of the Chinook should receive systems that can be quickly installed or removed, allowing the aircraft to be adapted according to the type of mission. This would include everything from protection equipment to systems designed for aerial refueling.
Currently, MH-47 helicopters already perform the role known as “Fat Cow,” operating as forward fuel points on the ground for other special operations aircraft.
The proposal now would be to expand this capability into the air, allowing MH-60 helicopters and other MH-47s to be refueled without needing to land in hostile areas. According to SOCOM, this could reduce operational risks and significantly extend mission range.
Interest in long-range aircraft has gained momentum amid the possibility of future conflicts in vast regions, such as the Pacific Ocean. In addition, recent operations in the Middle East and South America have reinforced the importance of platforms capable of operating far from traditional bases.
The U.S. Army is also evaluating the integration of technologies from the future MV-75 Cheyenne II tiltrotor into the MH-47, seeking to further expand the capabilities of the special operations fleet.
+ Russia says it sent nuclear warheads to Iskander-M systems in Belarus
Source: The War Zone | Photos: Dvidshub / Public domain | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
