The Sea Knight is the oldest type / model / series helicopter currently flying in front-line U.S. military service. Yet it remains capable and reliable thanks to modification programs, according to Thompson. The most recent of these programs is DCU. The Dynamic Component Upgrade Program replaces rotor head, flight control and drive system components with new components designed to improve corrosion resistance, increase wear protection and improve component damage tolerance.

The U.S. Marine Corps retired the CH-46 Sea Knight in August 2015.