The U.S. Army has awarded Boeing a contract for the purchase of three additional CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters, valued at $135 million, as part of its ongoing modernization efforts.
As noted by the company, this Lot 3 contract award follows the Army’s decision earlier this year to proceed with full-rate production of the CH-47F Block II.
Heather McBryan, Boeing’s vice president and program manager for Cargo Programs, emphasized the importance of this modernization, stating, “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 U.S. Army to meet evolving heavy-lift mission requirements around the world.”
Boeing is currently contracted to deliver nine of the aircraft out of the 465 that comprise the Army’s fleet. The contract includes funding from Congress for an additional three aircraft for the next production lot, and Boeing had previously secured a contract for the acquisition of long lead parts. This modernization is designed to ensure that the U.S. Army’s Chinook fleet remains capable of supporting a wide range of heavy-lift missions well into the future.
The first production CH-47F Block II was delivered in June, with a second unit following in September. The new configuration includes enhancements such as improvements to the drivetrain and airframe, which increase the aircraft’s maximum gross weight by 4,000 pounds, significantly boosting lift capacity. Additionally, modifications to the fuel system have extended the operational range for nearly all payloads, giving the aircraft an edge in long-range missions.
These upgrades not only strengthen the CH-47F Block II’s capabilities but also set the stage for affordable future enhancements, aligning with the Army’s goal of keeping the fleet operational for another 40 years.
