Login
iscover
US Army Special Operations Aviation Command awarded a US$115 million (AU$176.8 million) contract to Boeing to produce two more MH-47G Block II Chinook aircraft and begin advanced procurement on future helicopters.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
This new order, part of the US Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC) modernisation program, brings the total number of the MH-47G Block II aircraft contracted for the US Army Special Operations Forces to 46 aircraft.
USASOAC’s Chinook modernisation program supports more than 20,000 jobs and 360 suppliers in 40 states across the US, with the Chinook Block II production leveraging and strengthening the manufacturing base that will provide support to the production line for new aircraft and fleet sustainment.
Heather McBryan, Cargo Programs vice-president and program manager for Boeing Defense space and security, explained the importance of the new Chinook platforms, saying, “Whether it’s operating in the dead of night or in difficult terrain, the MH-47G Block II is a proven workhorse for special operations.
“It is our privilege to support ongoing USASOAC modernisation efforts that will continue to have a real-world impact on US national security,” McBryan said.
The MH-47G Block II heavy-lift helicopter incorporates a host of platform improvements, including a reinforced airframe, redesigned fuel tanks, and state-of-the-art avionics optimised for special operations missions delivering a platform that enhances and expands the “global reach” of the US Army Special Operations Forces.
Based on Boeing’s Block II CH-47F Chinook, the MH-47G provides the US Army Special Operations Forces with an aircraft capable of meeting today’s heavy-lift requirements, while providing structural and design improvements that allow additional future upgrades to meet long-term heavy-lift needs.
Key investments in next-generation technologies such as avionics open systems architecture and mission systems integration will enable decisive overmatch – a critical advantage for the warfighter to succeed in Joint All-Domain operations.
Currently, there are more than 950 Chinooks in service globally across 20 nations and support more than 20,000 jobs and 360 suppliers across 40 states in the US.
