The Australian Defence Force will acquire seven CH-47F Chinook helicopters under a A$513.5m contract signed with the US Army Security Assistance Command.
Defence personnel, materiel and science minister Greg Combet said that the aircraft would replace the existing fleet of six CH-47D Chinooks operated by C Squadron of the 5th Aviation Regiment based in Townsville.
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“The first two aircraft are planned to enter service in 2014, with all seven in service by 2017,” he said.
“The acquisition of seven new CH-47F Chinook helicopters by the Australian Government will strengthen our ability to support our soldiers operating in Afghanistan in the future.”
The helicopters will incorporate Australian Defence Force-specific mission equipment enhancements including crashworthy crew and passenger seating, fitment of miniguns and underfloor ballistic protection.
Australia will also receive two simulators and associated spares under the contract.
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