CH-47F Block II Chinook: Enhanced Lift, Range, and Sustainment
The U.S. Army has authorized two new production lots of the Boeing CH-47F Block II Chinook, advancing its heavy-lift modernization initiative. The Lot 4 and Lot 5 contracts, valued at $461 million, cover the purchase of nine aircraft, bringing the total number of CH-47F Block II helicopters on order to 18.
According to Boeing, the rapid contract awards highlight the Chinook’s continued importance within the Army’s future force structure, particularly in a contested logistics environment.
“The rapid succession of contracts indicates that the Chinook will continue to play an important role in the U.S. Army’s family-of-systems,” said Heather McBryan, vice president and program manager for Boeing Defense, Space & Security’s Cargo Programs. “We value our partnership with the Army and the support from Congress as we deliver this modernized capability to the warfighter.”
A CH-47F Block II conducts a flight at Redstone Test Center in Huntsville, Ala. (Boeing/Studio 51 Photo)
The decision follows the Army’s recent Rapid Fielding production milestone. Boeing is also collaborating with the Army to define the path forward for Lot 6, signaling steady production momentum.
So far, six CH-47F Block II aircraft have been delivered and are undergoing a series of evaluations to validate their enhanced performance.
Enhanced Lift, Range, and Sustainment
The CH-47F Block II integrates several major improvements:
- Upgraded drivetrain and airframe – increases maximum gross weight by 4,000 pounds, enhancing lift capability.
- Redesigned fuel system – extends mission radius across payload classes.
- Improved sustainment architecture – simplifies maintenance and reduces lifecycle costs.
- Open upgrade path – supports affordable future modernization.
These enhancements are designed to ensure that the Chinook remains the Army’s primary heavy-lift platform for the next 40 years.
About Boeing
Boeing is a leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter. It designs, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense products, and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. The company emphasizes innovation, safety, quality, and integrity across its global workforce and supplier base.
More About Boeing: https://defencewatch.eu/industry-and-companies/after-losing-the-race-to-build-americas-next-generation-stealth-fighter-lockheed-martin-is-betting-on-a-radical-upgrade-of-the-f-35/
Source: https://boeing.mediaroom.com/news-releases-statements?item=131596#assets_all
Edited: Katerina Urbanova
Photo credit: Boeing
