1st production Boeing CH-47F Chinook Block II intended for US Army enters final assembly stage.

The first production CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopter has reached the final assembly phase of production, the last step in production before the aircraft will be delivered to the U.S. Army. This is the first of many CH-47F Block II aircraft, the newest variant of the trusted Chinook helicopter series.

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The CH-47F Block II helicopter will provide the U.S. Army with increased heavy-lift capabilities for the next 30-plus years (Picture source: Boeing)

The CH-47F Block II helicopter will provide the Army with increased heavy-lift capabilities for the next 30-plus years. The Block II variant allows the Army to fly farther and lift more. It delivers much-needed capability, efficiency, interoperability and commonality in an evolving battlefield.

CH-47F Block II Lot 1, which went under contract in September 2021, began production in April 2022. The U.S. Army contracted Boeing to deliver two additional CH-47F Chinooks in September 2022 as part of Lot 2, bringing the total number of aircraft under contract to six. Congress has also authorized $177 million for Lot 3 aircraft and $23 million for Lot 4 advanced procurement.

“This is another great step in delivering relevant capability for our customer,” said Ken Eland, vice president and H-47 program manager. “This is the first of the latest generation of aircraft that will help the warfighter defend against ever-evolving threats around the globe.”

The first CH-47F Block II Chinook reaches final assembly in the Boeing Philadelphia factory (Picture source: Brett Anker) (Picture source: Boeing)

History

The CH-47 Chinook helicopter has a long and distinguished history. It was first introduced in 1962 and has been used in a variety of military operations, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Over the years, the Chinook has undergone numerous upgrades and modifications to improve its performance and capabilities.

The CH-47F Chinook Block II is the latest variant of this iconic helicopter. It was developed in response to the Army's need for a more capable and reliable helicopter to support its troops in combat. The first CH-47F Block II is slated for delivery in early 2024. The U.S. Army plans to upgrade its entire fleet of Chinooks to the Block II configuration by 2028.

Technical Data

The CH-47F Chinook Block II is a twin-engine, tandem-rotor helicopter that is designed to transport troops, supplies, and equipment in a variety of mission scenarios. It has a maximum speed of 170 knots (315 km/h) and a range of over 400 nautical miles (741 km).

Some of the key technical features of the CH-47F Chinook Block II include:
• Digital cockpit display system: The Block II variant features a modern digital cockpit display system that provides pilots with real-time situational awareness, enhanced safety features, and improved performance capabilities.
• Improved survivability features: The Block II variant features advanced defensive systems, such as infrared countermeasures, improved armor, and a digital crashworthy data recorder, to enhance the survivability of the helicopter and its crew.
• Enhanced communication systems: The Block II variant features upgraded communication systems that allow for better coordination and communication between the helicopter and ground forces.
• Modernized avionics: The Block II variant features modernized avionics that provides improved navigation, communication, and mission planning capabilities.
• Upgraded engines: The Block II variant features more powerful engines that provide increased performance and lift capabilities, allowing the helicopter to carry more weight and operate in higher altitudes.
• Overall, the CH-47F Chinook Block II is a highly capable and versatile helicopter that is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern warfare. Its advanced technology and improved capabilities make it an essential asset for the United States Army and its allies.