Boeing has been awarded a $4bn contract for delivery of 177 CH-47F Chinook medium-to-heavy-lift helicopters to the US Army.
Representing a cost-effective alternative to the annual contracts, the multi-year contract also features options, which if exercised by army could increase the total number of aircraft to 215.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Expected to help the US Government save more than $800m, the contract also eventually brings the army’s CH-47F total procurement close to its intended target of 464 aircraft, including 24 units for replacement of peacetime attrition aircraft.
US Army Cargo Helicopters project manager colonel Robert Barrie said the multi-year contract provides unprecedented savings for the US Army and taxpayers.
"The most important benefit is the continued support these aircraft will provide to soldiers in the field and civilians in distress," Barrie added.
See Also:
Boeing Cargo Helicopter Programmes vice-president Chuck Dabundo said the army would benefit not only from the efficiencies of a multi-year contract but also from the production efficiency gains achieved by the company and its suppliers.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalData”That includes the $130m investment we made to modernise the Chinook factory," Dabundo said.
"This contract will enable Boeing and our partners and suppliers in 45 states to bring stability to the workforce and to invest in production tooling, processes and other capital improvements."
Around 241 CH-47F-model aircraft are currently in service with 15 army active duty and National Guard units, while a 16th is presently being equipped.
An upgraded version of D-model, CH-47F Chinook features enhanced engines, improved avionics including Rockwell Collins common avionics architecture system (CAAS) cockpit, and BAE Systems’ digital advanced flight control system (DAFCS), as well as an upgraded airframe.
Extensively used for US Army’s air assault, transport, and medical evacuation and support missions in Afghanistan, the helicopter also serves as backbone of combat, logistics and humanitarian operations for 18 other operators worldwide.
Contract deliveries are scheduled to start in 2015.
Image: A US Army’s CH-47F Chinook helicopter during its flight. Photo: courtesy of US Army.
