The Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knight, also known as the “Phrog,” is a medium-lift tandem-rotor helicopter that has played a significant role in military operations for several decades. Developed by Boeing Vertol in the 1960s, the Sea Knight has served primarily with the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and the United States Navy.
The CH-46 Sea Knight was designed to fulfill various missions, including troop and cargo transport, casualty evacuation (medevac), search and rescue (SAR), and special operations support. Its unique tandem-rotor configuration provided excellent stability, maneuverability, and lifting capabilities, making it a reliable workhorse for both combat and humanitarian missions.
With a crew of three and the capacity to carry up to 25 fully equipped troops or 15 stretchers, the Sea Knight played a crucial role in transporting personnel and supplies during numerous military operations, including the Vietnam War, Gulf War, and Operation Enduring Freedom.
Throughout its service, the CH-46 Sea Knight underwent several upgrades and variants, including the CH-46A, CH-46D, CH-46E, and CH-46F models. These upgrades improved its performance, avionics, and overall capabilities, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in modern operations.
The CH-46 Sea Knight’s distinctive appearance, with its tandem rotors and large ramp at the rear for loading and unloading, became an iconic symbol of helicopter operations in the marine corps. Its ability to operate from ships, including aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships, and other vessels, made it a versatile asset in maritime environments.
Despite its long and illustrious service, the CH-46 Sea Knight was eventually retired from the USMC in 2015, marking the end of an era for this legendary helicopter. It was succeeded by the MV-22 Osprey, a tiltrotor aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and short takeoff and landing (STOL).
Today, the CH-46 Sea Knight continues to hold a special place in aviation history, remembered for its contributions to military operations and its role in supporting troops on the ground. Its legacy as a reliable and versatile helicopter remains an inspiration for future generations of rotorcraft design and operation.