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The Japan Self-Defense Forces has ordered 17 CH-47 Block II Chinooks Extended Range to modernise its fleet and replace some of its older CH-47 JA aircraft.
The aircraft will be co-produced by American defence prime Boeing and Japanese defence giant Kawasaki Heavy Industries, according to an official statement made earlier this month.
Under the agreement, Japan will become the fourth global customer to modernise it's Japanese Chinook fleet to the Block II configuration. Japan joins the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany as the fourth global customer for this advanced configuration.
“This award strengthens our decades-long relationship with KHI and provides critical capability improvements that will keep the Japan Self-Defense Forces operating heavy-lift aircraft for decades to come,” said Heather McBryan, vice president and program manager, Boeing Cargo Programs.
“The Block II configuration and digital flight controls will modernize and significantly improve Japan’s helicopter transport capabilities by improving aircraft stability, safety, and efficiency.”
The Block II Chinook extended range aircraft is Boeing's next generation of heavy-lift and multi-mission helicopter.
The aircraft features an advanced digital cockpit, reinforced airframe, enhanced fuel tanks, and other improvements allowing increased performance and commonality with the global fleet of updated Chinooks.
The adoption of the modern aircraft design and avionics architecture is expected to enable future technology upgrades and the ability to further expand operational capabilities.
Boeing and KHI have delivered over 100 Chinooks to the JSDF since the 1980s, making it one of the longest lasting and most successful license manufacturing programs in Japan.
