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US Army Orders Additional Boeing CH-47F Block II Chinooks

  • Upgraded configuration provides increased lift and extends range of the aircraft.

  • Lot 3 order continues ongoing modernization efforts to full-rate Block II production

PHILADELPHIA, December 4. The US Army ordered three additional CH-47F Block II Chinooks from Boeing. The Lot 3 contract award, valued at $135 million, is a part of the US Army’s ongoing modernization efforts.

A US Army CH-47F Block II Chinook conducts a sling load test alongside a CH-47F Block I aircraft. [Photo credit: Collin Magonigal US Army Aviation Flight Test Directorate (AFTD)]
“It is critical soldiers get to their destinations and have the equipment they need to accomplish the mission,” said Heather McBryan, Vice President and Program Manager, Boeing Cargo Programs. “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.”

This contract award follows the US Army’s February announcement that it is moving forward with full-rate production of the CH-47F Block II program. To date, Boeing is under contract for nine of up to 465 aircraft in the Army’s current fleet. The Army has also received funding from the US Congress for three aircraft as part of the next production lot and awarded Boeing a contract last year for acquisition of long lead parts.

Boeing delivered the first production CH-47F Block II aircraft to the Army in June followed by the second in September.

With improvements to the drivetrain and airframe, the CH-47F Block II configuration is stronger adding 4,000 pounds to the max gross weight of the aircraft and significantly increasing lift capability. Additionally, innovative changes to the fuel system extend the mission radius of nearly all payloads. Combined with enhanced sustainment and the ability to make affordable future upgrades, the CH-47F Block II will meet the Army’s desired goal of flying for at least another 40 years.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top US exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity.

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