The US Army is procuring three additional CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters from Boeing under a Lot 3 contract valued at $135m.
The Lot 3 order supports the continued modernisation efforts and the transition to full-rate production of Block II.
The CH-47F Block II, a tandem rotor helicopter standing 5.68m tall, offers enhanced payload capacity and operational reach beyond its predecessor, the CH-47F.
This Block II variant is designed to improve the Army’s rapid response capabilities for contingency missions and various tactical and operational scenarios.
Upgrades include enhancements to the drivetrain and airframe, which increase the maximum gross weight by 4,000lb, thus boosting lift capacity.
Modifications to the fuel system also extend the mission radius for nearly all payloads.
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The CH-47F Block II is engineered for extended service, with a focus on enhanced sustainment and cost-effective future upgrades, aligning with the Army’s objective to maintain the fleet’s operational status for at least 40 more years.
Boeing Cargo Programs vice-president and programme manager Heather McBryan said: “It is critical soldiers get to their destinations and have the equipment they need to accomplish the mission.
“The CH-47F Block II’s increased payload capacity and expanded range enables the US Army to meet evolving heavy-lift mission requirements around the world.”
The Army has also secured funding from Congress for the three additional helicopters in the next production lot and awarded Boeing a contract for long lead parts acquisition last year.
This recent contract follows the Army’s February announcement to proceed with full-rate production of the CH-47F Block II programme.
Currently, Boeing is contracted for nine of the planned 465 aircraft in the Army’s fleet.
The company delivered the first two production CH-47F Block II helicopters to the Army in June and September, respectively.
The H-47 Chinook programme provides employment for more than 20,000 individuals and involves 360 suppliers across 40 US states. It is also used by 19 other nations worldwide, with more than 950 Chinooks deployed in 20 countries.
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