Boeing offers CH-47 Chinook for Poland’s heavy transport helicopter needs

                             Boeing is offering the CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter to Poland. The announcement was made at the annual MSPO International Defence Industry Exhibition where Boeing is highlighting advanced defence systems, capabilities and services.

“The Chinook has been a key part of the European defence and humanitarian relief missions for more than five decades and would enhance Poland’s cooperation with allied forces, and support the country’s defence needs,” said Tim Flood, senior director, International Business Development for Europe and Americas. “In addition, the Chinook would deliver additional benefits to Poland through job creation, economic growth and greater autonomy for the Polish defence industry.”

The CH-47F Block II is the newest iteration of the Chinook, providing increased lift and range. Chinook Block II is a modernized and ready now solution that provides increased operational flexibility, improved performance, and enhanced survivability. It builds upon the proven capabilities of the CH-47 Chinook, offering an upgraded platform that meets the capability that militaries need today and serves as a strong foundation for affordable future upgrades.  

Support Helicopter Force takes part in Exercise Hades Warrior at RAF Leeming

Rotary Assets from across the Joint Aviation Command (JAC) including Apache, Chinook, Wildcat, and Merlin, have come together at RAF Leeming to take part in the very first Exercise Hades Warrior under Aviation Task Force (Support Helicopter) Headquarters (ATF(SH)). 

Bringing together aircraft, personnel and many Force Elements, from across the JAC, Exercise Hades Warrior saw aircraft from all over the country, including Apache from 7 Army Air Corps, Chinook from 27 Squadron RAF Odiham, Merlin from the Commando Helicopter Force, and Wildcat from 847 Naval Air Squadron, all under the leadership of the ATF(SH) and evaluation of 22 Squadron, RAF Benson. Key life support was provided by 3 Mobile Catering Squadron (3MCS), who provided over 7000 delicious hot and cold meals of the highest quality.

The Exercise saw over 200 Pilots, Aircrew, and ground support staff, deployed to the Northern HAS Site of RAF Leeming over a two-week period. Running daily flying sorties across the north of England and into Scotland, the exercise provided first-in-class training for Aircrew and a golden opportunity to showcase JAC, and enablers, as a vital element of the UK’s readiness and capability on Joint Operations and the Joint Service nature of bringing all Force Elements under a single Command.

Wing Commander Green, OC 22 Squadron said:  “Exercise Hades Warrior promised a fantastic opportunity to enhance JAC capability and readiness by refreshing, honing, and enhancing high-end warfighting skills, and for 22 Squadron to develop the next generation of tri-service rotary tactics instructors in a collaborative training environment.  Enabled by the hard work of many across enabling units, in JAC and at RAF Leeming, the Ex very much delivered on that promise."

US Army orders two Boeing MH-47G Block II Chinooks for special operations

Army Special Operations now has 46 MH-47G aircraft under contract

Updated configuration improves global reach capabilities

In June, U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC) awarded Boeing a $115 million contract to produce two more MH-47G Block II Chinook aircraft and begin advanced procurement on future helicopters. Including the new order, the Army has contracted for a total of 46 MH-47G Block II aircraft.  

“Whether it’s operating in the dead of night or in difficult terrain, the MH-47G Block II is a proven workhorse for special operations,” said Heather McBryan, Cargo Programs vice president and program manager for Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “It is our privilege to support ongoing USASOAC modernization efforts that will continue to have a real-world impact on U.S. national security.”

USASOAC’s Chinook modernization program supports more than 20,000 jobs and 360 suppliers in 40 states across the U.S. Chinook Block II production leverages and strengthens the manufacturing base that will provide support to the production line for new aircraft and fleet sustainment.

With a reinforced airframe, redesigned fuel tanks and state-of-the-art avionics, the MH-47G Block II heavy-lift helicopter improves USASOAC’S global reach capabilities. In addition, the Block II design enables future affordable modernization efforts, keeping the iconic heavy-lift helicopter flying for decades to come.

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Royal Navy's 847 Naval Air Squadron work with Commando Forces for raid, insertion and rescue training

Commandos have been put through their paces with raid, insertion, and rescue techniques in a range of scenarios both at sea and on land. Personnel from Commando Helicopter Force’s 847 Naval Air Squadron worked with Commando Forces from a range of units during a week of intense training across the south coast.

A Wildcat helicopter from 847 NAS and Chinooks from 7 Squadron RAF were used for a 4-aircraft aviation raid near Goodwood and then helicasting off Portland before CHF 847 NAS completed Joint Personnel Recovery serials near Exeter with the Royal Marines and 29 Commando. 

Poor weather precluded getting into the objective area of the aviation raid, however this was used as a training evolution. It tested the formation commander’s captaincy decisions and the skills of the handling pilots as they battled through heavy rain under a low cloud base in falling light.

Next up was helicasting in Portland with UK Commando Forces practising the insertion technique at sea before being recovered by boats. It’s a skill which gets Commandos into the action quickly, dropping them from the back of helicopters into the ocean.

The Royal Marines from M Company, 42 Commando, leapt from the Wildcat and Chinook helicopters into the water below.

UK orders long-range Chinook helicopters

Capability boost for UK's global military operations as contract confirmed for new Chinooks

The new helicopters will have double the range of the existing Chinooks in service among the UK Armed Forces

Britain’s heavy-lift capability will be bolstered with the purchase of 14 extended-range Chinooks (CH47-ER), which will pump an estimated £151 million into the UK economy.

14 state-of-the art Chinook helicopters to provide versatile heavy-lift capability over double the range of a standard Chinook.

Programme now confirmed to bring in an estimated £151 million of extra investment to UK economy.

UK companies will produce components critical for manufacturing and maintaining the helicopters.

The new Chinooks significantly enhance the UK’s strategic mobility with its ability to operate in challenging environments. From the desert to the arctic, the helicopter has double the range of a standard Chinook and is capable of air-to-air refuelling, with the ability to carry up to 55 personnel or 10,000 kg of cargo.

With a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour, the new helicopters will have a range of new capabilities, including an advanced digital cockpit and a modernised airframe to increase stability and survivability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps announced the commitment to proceed with the contract after meeting crew members from one of the Chinooks in the Royal Air Force’s existing fleet.

Through successful negotiations between MOD’s procurement arm - Defence Equipment & Support - and the US Government, the UK has reduced costs for elements of the programme by more than £300 million, ensuring value for money whilst providing our armed forces with a cutting-edge heavy lift capability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: "Procuring these Chinook helicopters will mark a significant milestone in our efforts to modernise and enhance the agility of the UK Armed Forces, cementing our ability to respond at pace to situations and threats across the globe.

The Chinook is one of our most iconic aircraft, having been operated in every major conflict since the Falklands War. Delivering on this deal not only enhances our capability, but will boost UK industry and skills."

The Defence Secretary also visited Poland yesterday and met his counterpart to discuss international support for Ukraine, and made a further visit to meet British troops currently exercising in Poland. 

UK orders 14 more Chinook helicopters....

Capability boost for UK's global military operations as contract confirmed for new Chinooks

The new helicopters will have double the range of the existing Chinooks in service among the UK Armed Forces

Britain’s heavy lift capability will be bolstered with the purchase of 14 extended-range Chinooks (CH47-ER), which will pump an estimated £151 million into the UK economy.

14 state-of-the art Chinook helicopters to provide versatile heavy-lift capability over double the range of a standard Chinook.

Programme now confirmed to bring in an estimated £151 million of extra investment to UK economy.

UK companies will produce components critical for manufacturing and maintaining the helicopters.

The new Chinooks significantly enhance the UK’s strategic mobility with its ability to operate in challenging environments. From the desert to the arctic, the helicopter has double the range of a standard Chinook and is capable of air-to-air refuelling, with the ability to carry up to 55 personnel or 10,000 kg of cargo.

With a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour, the new helicopters will have a range of new capabilities, including an advanced digital cockpit and a modernised airframe to increase stability and survivability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps announced the commitment to proceed with the contract after meeting crew members from one of the Chinooks in the Royal Air Force’s existing fleet.

Through successful negotiations between MOD’s procurement arm - Defence Equipment & Support - and the US Government, the UK has reduced costs for elements of the programme by more than £300 million, ensuring value for money whilst providing our armed forces with a cutting-edge heavy lift capability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: "Procuring these Chinook helicopters will mark a significant milestone in our efforts to modernise and enhance the agility of the UK Armed Forces, cementing our ability to respond at pace to situations and threats across the globe.

The Chinook is one of our most iconic aircraft, having been operated in every major conflict since the Falklands War. Delivering on this deal not only enhances our capability, but will boost UK industry and skills."

The Defence Secretary also visited Poland yesterday and met his counterpart to discuss international support for Ukraine, and made a further visit to meet British troops currently exercising in Poland. 

RAF Chinook helps with massive Kiwi restoration...

RAF Odiham big Kiwi lift

Earlier this week, a Chinook from RAF Odiham, supported the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) with the restoration of the chalk Kiwi carved into a hillside in Bulford, Wiltshire.

Aerial view of the hillside chalk kiwi on the right

A Chinook belonging to 18(B) Sqn from RAF Odiham used a training sortie to enable the restoration of the chalk Kiwi through a series of underslung loads. The historic site was created by New Zealand (NZ) soldiers, who were based in the UK in 1919. It was created to commemorate the NZ soldiers’ achievements during the First World War.

Back of the head of the New Zealand pilot as he flies the chinook, his New Zealand patch evident on the back of his flight helmet. 

This part of the longer training sortie offered a different perspective for all involved. The Chinook was operated by two pilots and one of them was a NZ exchange Pilot, Flt Lt James Patrick, “JP” as he is known to his friends, who was delighted to be part of this sortie.  JP has been in the UK for over two years and has already represented NZ as he was part of the formation flypast for HMTQ Platinum Jubilee flying the Chinook.

“JP has been with the Squadron for 18 months now. A superb individual, he brings a wealth of instructional experience to the Chinook Force and has already deployed alongside NATO partners on operations.”

Wing Commander T Carter

Officer Commanding 18(B) Sqn

This task is an excellent opportunity for the Chinook Force to increase its expertise with novel underslung loads. A core skill, it is used regularly on worldwide operations as well as National Support tasks.

Chinook flying overhead with the chalk load under slung

The Chinook lift capability with its two Honeywell turboshaft engines can deliver 55 Troops or 10 tons of freight, flying up to 160 Knots. So the chalk that was underslung for this task was given to the right aircraft. JP said:

"It was a great honour to be at the controls, delivering to such a historic site and being part of something that is part of my history."

The NZ High Commissioner and NZ Defence Force were also in attendance at the “Kiwi” alongside several DIO and Army units, including Joint Helicopter Support Squadron (JHSS), who prepared the chalk to be underslung and monitored the release at the site.

Military personnel and others, spread the chalk over the site to restore the Kiwi. 

Royal Canadian Air Force CH-147F Chinook helicopter crashes

A Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CH-147F Chinook helicopter crashed in the Ottawa River in the early hours of Tuesday, June 20th. Following a search, the RCAF confirmed today that two crew members onboard did not survive the incident. The names of the deceased individuals are not being released at the request of their families.

The two members were amongst a total crew of four who were on the 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron aircraft at the time of the accident. The other two members of the crew were found by Garrison Petawawa firefighters earlier and taken to hospital in Pembroke with minor injuries shortly after the crash. Both have since been released and are being monitored by Canadian Armed Forces medical personnel. The full range of support is being provided to the families of the two deceased members, the two surviving air crew members and their families, and to the members of 450 Squadron and Garrison Petawawa at this difficult time.

The RCAF’s Directorate of Flight Safety is conducting an investigation into the accident to determine the cause. 

The Honorable Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence said: "I join all Canadians in mourning the loss of two Royal Canadian Air Force members from 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron. These brave Canadian Armed Forces members served Canada with honour, dedication, and immeasurable courage. I extend my deepest condolences to their loved ones. I also send my prayers to the two members injured in the crash, who are now recovering. We are with you.”

General Wayne Eyre, Chief of the Defence Staff said “It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of these two members. They served with honour, proudly devoting their lives to Canada with tremendous professionalism and selfless service. Their loss is devastating, and we stand in grief with their families, friends, and teammates during this time of great sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are also with our members who were injured in this tragic accident, and we wish them a quick recovery. On behalf of all members of the armed forces, the Canadian Armed Forces Chief Warrant Officer and I offer our deepest condolences to the loved ones of our fallen.”

Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, Commander, Royal Canadian Air Force commented: “The hearts of Royal Canadian Air Force members are heavy with the news from Garrison Petawawa about the loss of two members from 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron.  There are no words to describe a loss as tragic as this. On behalf of the entire Air Force family, Chief Warrant Officer Hall and I offer our deepest condolences and support to the families, friends and loved ones of all those affected by this accident.”

The search for the stricken helicopter was supported by approximately 110 Canadian Armed Forces members on the shore and on the water; including divers from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment, as well as CC-130J Hercules and CH-146 Griffon aircraft from 424 Transport and Rescue Squadron, and 427 Special Operations Aviation Squadron. An Ontario Provincial Police marine and dive unit, and Petawawa and Pembroke fire departments, also supported search efforts. 

RAF Chinook conducts airborne gunnery training in Lincolnshire

RAF Chinook conducts airborne gunnery training in Lincolnshire

A Royal Air Force Chinook from RAF Odiham has been conducting live firing training at a range in Lincolnshire.

A Royal Air Force Chinook from RAF Odiham has been conducting live firing training at a range in Lincolnshire.

During the exercise, the Chinook fired twin M134 Miniguns and single M60D General Purpose Machine guns at a mix of purpose-built targets.

The firing is done by the onboard Weapons System Operators, who are required to conduct this training regularly to ensure they maintain their skills and safety qualifications. Firing from a moving helicopter is particularly difficult and the accuracy of the firing was assessed as part of the training. The training includes responses to various threat scenarios, such as self-defence when the aircraft is taking-off and landing.

After completing the daylight firing serials, the aircraft landed at RAF Coningsby to refuel and replenish the ammunition. It then completed the same training at night, with the crew using night vision goggles.

20th Boeing CH-47F Chinook helicopter delivered to the Royal Netherlands Air Force

The CH-47F Chinook is an advanced multi-mission helicopter containing a fully integrated, digital cockpit management system. Photo Fred Trolio/Boeing

U.S. planemaker Boeing has delivered the 20th CH-47F Chinook helicopter to the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF), concluding the country’s latest fleet update.

“Our continuing partnership with the Royal Netherlands Air Force exemplifies the value of a modern and versatile Chinook fleet,” said Ken Eland, vice president and H-47 program manager. “These state-of-the-art aircraft will significantly improve their defense and humanitarian assistance capabilities.”

The Netherlands is one of eight NATO countries to operate the Chinook and has fielded the aircraft continuously since receiving its first CH-47D models in 1995. In 2016, the RNLAF purchased14 new CH-47F Chinooks through the U.S. Department of Defense’s Foreign Military Sales program. In 2017, the RNLAF signed an agreement to upgrade their remaining six D-model Chinook helicopters to the latest F-model configuration, ensuring commonality of systems for their entire 20-aircraft fleet.

“This is a milestone for us. We have newer radios and newer equipment which help our pilots operate better in different environments than we do already,” said LTC Wil van Rijn, senior system integrator of the Chinook, Dutch Ministry of Defence.

The CH-47F Chinook is an advanced multi-mission helicopter containing a fully integrated, digital cockpit management system compatible with Common Avionics Architecture System. Its advanced cargo-handling capabilities further complement the aircraft's mission performance and handling characteristics.

RAF Chinooks return home from supporting NATO Operations in Estonia.....

Two Chinooks from RAF Odiham have returned home after supporting the UK-led NATO enhanced Forward Presence in the Baltic Region since 8 July 2022.

Photo RAF / Crown copyright

Based out of Amari Air Base in Estonia, the deployment was an opportunity for the RAF Chinooks to train with a wide range of allies and partners and demonstrate the battle-winning capabilities of the aircraft to international colleagues.

Photo RAF / Crown copyright

It proved to be a busy period for the detachment, with more than 1600 passenger movements and 13.5 tonnes of freight transported. In just a short amount of time, Aviation Task Force 3 was able to share the Chinook’s capabilities with US, Belgian, French, Finnish, Estonian and Danish military personnel, as well as with members of the public, at the Baltic International Air Show in Latvia, and journalists from Estonia and Finland.

Following the successful handover from the Puma Force based at RAF Benson, the Chinook Force element of Aviation Task Force 3 hit the ground running and immediately began working alongside the UK, US and European assets.

On 19 July 2022, the Chinook Force welcomed Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Estonia, Mr Ross Allen, accompanied by the Defence Attaché, who visited Aviation Task Force 3. Her Majesty’s Ambassador spent time talking to the deployed personnel and received a familiarisation flight of the local area we used for training.

Photo RAF / Crown copyright

Philippines is looking to buy Boeing Chinook helicopters after dropping Russian deal

Photo RAF / Royal Air Force

The Philippines is now looking to buy Chinook helicopters from Boeing in the United States, its ambassador confirmed today after a deal worth $227.35 million with Russia was scrapped in order to avoid sanctions.

It was just days before Rodrigo Duterte ended his six-year Presidential term, that Philippines scrapped the deal to buy 16 Mi-17 Russian military transport helicopters.   "This cancellation of this contract is precipitated mainly by the war in Ukraine. While there are sanctions expected to come our way, from the United States and western countries, obviously it is not in our interest to continue and pursue this contract," ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez told the media.

The Chinooks would be used to transport troops and equipment, replacing the nation's existing hardware, the ambassador confirmed. The Philippines is pursuing discussions with Russia to recover the $38 million deposit payment it made for the helicopters. 

RAF Chinook support to exercise Vigilant Fox in Finland

Photo RAF / Crown copyright

Two Aviation Task Force 3 Chinooks from RAF Odiham have been supporting Exercise VIGILANT FOX in Finland.

Alongside CH-47F Chinooks and UH-60 Blackhawks from the United States and NH90s from Finland, the helicopters conducted mixed formation training to enable multi-aircraft aviation support to the Heli-borne Assault Force.

Photo RAF / Crown copyright

VIGILANT FOX was a four-day validation exercise for C Company, 2 RIFLES, Finnish Karelian Brigade and the Jaeger Guard Regiment. For UK Chinooks, the exercise preparation began with 3 days of joint ground training interspersed with 2, 3 and 4-ship sorties. Flying in tri-lateral mixed formation at low level and into confined areas brought the aviation units to the same standard and reinforced existing procedures.

Aviation support was supplied by a joint package of 2x UK CH-47, 2x US UH-60 and 1x FIN NH90. RAF aircrew planners forward based to Finland and worked with their counterparts to ensure well-integrated and successful training took place, whilst discussing their operating capabilities and differences.

Photo RAF / Crown copyright

The Heli-borne Assault Force insertion of British Army troops of C Coy into the training area at Niinisalo, Western Finland was the main effort of the first day of the Ex. The Finnish and British units were tested by opposition forces presented by the Finnish Pori Brigade with an attached US Cavalry troop.

Throughout the rest of the week, the crews participated in staging operations, aviation assaults and defensive support missions which included rapid planning and integration within an evolving tactical ground scenario. Observations and improvements in procedures and tactical manoeuvres was shared between nations in comprehensive briefing and debriefing.

Boeing making ready for ILA Berlin Airshow

 

At ILA Berlin Airshow, Boeing  will highlight its industry-leading portfolio of commercial, defense and support services and showcase advanced systems and capabilities with a focus on sustainable aerospace. Boeing's presence at the show will include its commercial airliners, along with advanced defense capabilities such as heavy-lift helicopter, maritime patrol aircraft, advanced fighters and trainers, and autonomous systems.

"We welcome the opportunity to engage with the global aerospace community at the show after a two year pause," said Michael Haidinger, president of Boeing Germany, Central & Eastern Europe and the Nordics. "We will highlight our strengths in innovation and sustainability, our established and growing presence in Germany, new strategic partnerships with German industry, and our growing family of products that will soon be in operation by the German armed forces and airline customers.”

Boeing's exhibit will highlight the 777X, 737 MAX and 777-8F, in addition to the EA-18G Growler, T-7A Advanced Pilot Training System, the Boeing Airpower Teaming System and Germany’s future maritime patrol aircraft, the P-8A Poseidon. The CH-47 Chinook, which was recently selected by the German Government for its STH Heavy-Lift Helicopter program, will additionally be highlighted at the show.

During the show, a Royal Air Force CH-47 Chinook will perform daily flight displays. The U.S. Department of Defense is expected to display several Boeing platforms, including the AH-64 Apache attack helicopter, CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter, P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft, and F-15 fighter jet.

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Boeing and Airbus Helicopters sign strategic H-47 Chinook partnership to support Germany’s STH requirements

This is perhaps a sentence you never thought you'd read, but Boeing and Airbus have agreed to work together.

The deal is to partner on the H-47 Chinook in support of Germany’s Schwerer Transporthubschrauber (STH) heavy-lift helicopter requirements.

 “We are pleased that Airbus Helicopters has joined our team of strategic partners on the H-47 Chinook program for Germany, and together we will provide the strongest offering to the Bundeswehr,” said Mark Cherry, Boeing vice president and general manager, Vertical Lift programs. “The Chinook has been the preferred heavy-lift helicopter in Europe for decades and a cornerstone of all kinds of NATO operations. It is the only heavy-lift capable of providing Germany immediate interoperability with allied nations and is significantly more powerful, versatile and agile than any other aircraft in its class.”

The new partnership between Boeing and Airbus aims at bolstering German defence readiness while supporting German industry and economic growth. The partnership will draw on the strengths and combined expertise of the world’s leading aerospace companies to deliver advanced capability, readiness and innovative solutions as part of the German Chinook industry offering.

U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command order six more MH-47G Block II Chinook helicopters from Boeing

The U.S. planemaker Boeing has taken an order for 6  MH-47G Block II Chinook helicopters from the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC).  The deal is valued at $195 million, brings the total number of MH-47G Block II aircraft under contract with the USASOAC to 36.

The upgraded MH-47G Block II Chinook features improved structure and weight reduction initiatives that increase the aircraft’s performance and efficiency, allowing for extended lift and range.

“We’re answering the USASOAC's call to modernize its fleet of heavy-lift helicopters,” said Andy Builta vice president, Cargo programs and H-47 program manager. “With this upgrade, new advances in technology enable the proven Chinook to meet evolving threats and ever-changing mission requirements.”

Boeing has delivered five MH-47G Block II aircraft to date. Deliveries of the new order are scheduled to begin in 2024, with production to primarily take place at Boeing’s Philadelphia site.

The H-47 Chinook program supports more than 20,000 jobs and 360 suppliers in 40 states and is relied on by the U.S. Army and 19 countries around the globe.

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RAF Chinooks pass 3000 hours of operational flying supporting French Operations in Mali

Photo Royal Air Force / Crown copyright

RAF Chinooks currently deployed in Mali in support of French Military Operations there have passed a significant milestone after recording 3000 hours of operational flight time.

Photo Royal Air Force / Crown copyright

The milestone was passed by 1310 Flight, the RAF detachment that operates the CH-47 Chinooks in Mali and is primarily committed to conducting flight operations in support of the French Operation Barkhane, a counter-terrorist operation across the Sahel region of West Africa.

Photo Royal Air Force / Crown copyright

The RAF Odiham based helicopters from Joint Helicopter Command, first arrived in West Africa during July 2018 to provide a heavy lift helicopter support capability to Operation Barkhane.  The Chinooks therefore regularly carry out troop movements, resupply missions and logistical support to the French forward operating bases and desert locations around Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger.

Photo Royal Air Force / Crown copyright

Since the inception of the task in 2018, the CH47 Chinook detachment has have moved over 1,500 tonnes of freight and over 18,000 French soldiers.  The aircraft are currently flown by pilots and aircrew from 27 Squadron, supported by personnel from across the RAF, British Army and Royal Navy drawn from Joint Helicopter Command.

RAF contract worth £1.4 billion for 14 Chinook helicopters agreed

Photo RAF / Crown copyright 

A £1.4 billion contract to modernise the Chinook fleet over the next 10 years has been agreed. The deal will see British forces benefit from 14 of the latest iconic heavy-lift helicopters.

The 14 aircraft will be purchased from the US via a Foreign Military Sales agreement and includes development and manufacture over the next decade. Deliveries are scheduled to start in 2026. The new helicopters will be based at RAF Odiham, the home of the Chinook fleet.

The order for the new aircraft signals the commitment made in the recent Defence Command Paper to invest over £85 billion on military equipment over the next four years to reform and renew our Armed Forces.

Proven in battle and operated in every major conflict since the Falklands War, the Chinook is a highly-versatile aircraft.  The helicopter can operate in a diverse range of environments, from the desert to the arctic, and transport up to 55 personnel or ten tonnes of cargo. With a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour, the new H-47(ER) aircraft will have a range of new capabilities, including:

advanced digital cockpit

modernised airframe to increase stability and improve survivability

digital automatic flight control system to allow pilots to hover in areas of limited visibility

Photo RAF / Crown copyright 

The Royal Air Force gives a Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopter a new paint job

Photo Royal Air Force / Crown copyright 

Royal Air Force Odiham is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Chinook helicopter entering RAF Service with a commemorative new colour scheme.

The new colour scheme was unveiled today as the aircraft departed RAF Odiham, the home of the Chinook Force, on a routine training flight. On board was the paint scheme designer and current Chinook pilot Flight Lieutenant Andy Donovan of 27 Squadron, RAF Odiham.

“It has been a great privilege to rejuvenate special liveries on the Chinook Force over the past five years. For a short time, this aircraft will be the centrepiece around which 40 years of incredible stories can be told. I am personally very proud to be associated with the Chinook and the professionalism displayed by all who contribute to getting this incredible aircraft into the air, wherever it may be needed.”

Flight Lieutenant Andy Donovan

27 Squadron pilot

The commemorative paint scheme was applied during regular scheduled routine maintenance at no additional cost. The design has taken two years of groundwork and engineering preparation before entering the paint bay at RAF Odiham. A dedicated team from Serco have worked over several weeks to apply the special commemorative livery.

Royal Air Force Chinooks conduct heavy lift operations in Mali

An RAF Chinook has delivered heavy equipment to extend French and Malian forces' operational range as part of Op Barkhane, the French counter insurgency operation in the West African Sahel region.

The recent operation saw a Chinook of 1310 Flight lift a large Air-portable Fuel Container to a Forward Operating Base to enable ground and air recces to operate at a greater distance from Gao. This operation required several days of planning before personnel from the Joint Helicopter Support Squadron and the crewman of the CH-47 were able to successfully under sling the container and transport it the 25 nautical miles to the camp.

The three Chinooks based in Gao, Mali that form 1310 Flt are currently operated by personnel from RAF Odiham based 27 Squadron RAF, together with supporting elements from the Tactical Supply Wing and Joint Helicopter Support Squadron.

“The UK’s contribution to the French mission, Op Barkhane, is important by providing heavy support helicopter lift. This enables French and Malian ground and aviation elements to operate at significant range and remain resupplied.

“The key to our success has been the full integration of 1310 Flt with the French GTD-A, and latterly, the Danish Aviation Detachment, to integrate our Chinooks with the Danish Merlin and French, Cougar, Puma Tiger, Gazelle and Caiman helicopters. 2020 saw the detachment maintain a high tempo of operational sorties that delivered strong support to the ongoing mission and is a testament to the skills and professionalism of all the personnel deployed here in Mali”

Lieutenant Colonel Steve Brining

UK National Component Commander