$136 Million for First Modernised CHINOOKs

Boeing and the US Army have signed a $136 million (€117 million) contract for the first CH-47F Block II CHINOOKs, paving the way for the service’s future heavy-lift readiness, the company announced on 4 October.

The Army exercised options for four contracted CH-47F Block II CHINOOKs, with the aircraft scheduled for delivery beginning 2023. Separately, the Army awarded Boeing a $29 million advanced procurement contract for the second production lot of CH-47F Block II aircraft.

The Block II CHINOOK features multiple upgrades aimed at providing additional lift capability and increasing commonality between US and allied fleets, thus reducing maintenance costs. “This is a big step in CHINOOK modernization, supporting the Army’s future multi-domain vision,” said Andy Builta, VP of Cargo & Utility Helicopters and H-47 Program Manager. “The Block II technologies will drive commonality across the fleet and enable our soldiers to return home safely for decades.”