The Boeing CH-47F Block I has just received its last order, for which deliveries and production will definitively end in 2027. In the meantime, the Block II will take over, offering increased lift and range thanks to to an improved driveline, reinforced airframe and redesigned fuel tanks.
An FMS contract that marks the end of the CH-47F Block I…
Under a US Department of Defense Foreign Military Sales (FMS), Boeing has been awarded a contract to produce 18 CH-47F Block I Chinooks for South Korea and additional device for Spain. As Boeing continues its transition to building the advanced Block II configuration, this contract worth up to $793 million represents the last aircraft ordered under the current FMS CH-47F Block I contract with the US government.
…And the transition to Block II
“The CH-47F Block I Chinook remains the world’s most important heavy-lift helicopter, and for good reason,” said Heather McBryan, vice president and H-47 program manager. “Although Block I orders have been completed and we continue our modernization efforts, we will continue to support our customers’ devices, which will play a vital role in the years to come.”
An end announced for 2027
Although CH-47F Block I production and deliveries end with this order in 2027, Chinook modernization efforts will continue with the H-47 Block II program already underway. The Block II offers increased lift and range thanks to an improved driveline, reinforced airframe and redesigned fuel tanks. Currently, six Block II aircraft are under contract with the US Army, 36 with US Army Special Operations Command (SOCOM) and 14 with the UK. SOCOM has been receiving Block II aircraft for several years and the US Army will receive its first CH-47F Block II at the beginning of 2024. Block I and Block II helicopters will coexist in the heavy transport sector. With this latest acquisition of Chinook Block I, Spain will increase its fleet to 18 aircraft and South Korea will join 15 other operators who benefit from the digital cockpit and advanced cargo handling capabilities.
South Korean CH-47Fs
“South Korea joins a growing list of operators around the world who recognize the value of the modernized CH-47F Chinook,” said Vince Logsdon, vice president of global business development and strategic marketing. “While Spain is already reaping the benefits of the aircraft in Europe, we are honored to support the modernization of South Korea’s heavy-lift helicopters with a versatile product capable of meeting the demands of missions in Asia-Pacific.” .
