The UK Ministry of Defence has accepted the first 28 Honeywell T55-L-714A engines and fielding kits for Chinook helicopters that will operate in Afghanistan.

The upgraded engines, worth $185m, are capable of increasing power by 17% and reducing fuel consumption by nearly 5%.

“Increased power and fuel efficiency mean the soldiers can go further, lift more and deliver more troops and ammunition,” said Honeywell Militaries and Operators vice president Paul Vidano.