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Boeing and the U.S. Army have signed a $136 million contract for the first CH-47F Block II Chinooks.
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 U.S. 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, vice president 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.”
The CH-47 Chinook Block II is powered by cutting-edge technologies to lift more throughout the envelope – especially in high, hot operating conditions – all of which enable soldiers to meet tomorrow’s heavy-lift mission requirements. Not only does Block II improve readiness for the U.S. Army and Special Operations warfighters, it also limits future sustainment costs and ensures that the Chinook fleet will be available to serve for decades to come.
The program also supports an essential industrial base, allowing key suppliers within the aerospace sector to remain productive while safeguarding American jobs. With more than 950 Chinooks in 20 countries, the program continues to deliver unrivaled production, maintenance and sustainment cost efficiencies.
