UK Chinooks in Mali

[Slater]

If these helicopters are so necessary, one wonders why the French don't buy a few for themselves?

 

https://www.janes.com/article/89770/uk-extends-chinook-mission-to-mali

[Rickoshea52]

I recall RAF C-17’s were made available to the French for a similar mission a few years ago, the question I wondered at the time was why not use their shiny new A400M’s?🤭

[sammy da fish]

Part answer your question as why the French did not use their A400’s I doubt if the hold or cargo area is large enough on a 400 and secondly there may not have the right clearance for such loads at the time. There is also a bit cross country help. I came back from Norway in 2007 on a French Airforce A300 as we (the RAF) must of been short of aircraft at the time.

 

[Truro Model Builder]

Given the size of France's army aviation, I do find it surprising that they have never opted for a heavy lift rotary capability themselves. Admittedly, it might put the local helicopter manufacturing industry's nose out of joint if they went for a couple of dozen CH-53Ks or CH-47Fs, but if you don't build it yourself you have to go to those who do.

 

And yes, I believe that they requested the RAF's help to airlift some big equipment to Mali that the A400M could not carry. Can't remember what.