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Germany will acquire 60 CH-47F Block II Chinook heavy-lift cargo helicopters in a possible foreign military sale approved by the US State Department for around US$8.5 billion.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress of the possible foreign military sale on 11 May.
The sale includes the helicopters, as well as 140 engines, 72 common missile warnings systems, communications security radios, laser-detecting sets, radar-detecting sets, and electronic counter-countermeasures, transponders, navigation systems, air data computers, night vision devices, infrared suppression systems, equipment, logistics and program support.
“The proposed sale will improve Germany’s heavy lift capability. Germany intends to use this enhanced capability to strengthen its homeland defence and deter regional threats,” the DSCA statement said.
“Germany will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and services into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
Boeing Helicopters has been selected as the principal contractor and the deal will require temporary deployment of around 30 contractor representatives to Germany’s main operating bases for three to five years.
