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Boeing Delivers 17th CH-47F Chinook Transport Helicopter to Spanish Armed Forces.
On October 15, Boeing announced the delivery of the seventeenth CH-47F Chinook Block I transport helicopter to the Spanish Armed Forces, marking the completion of an intergovernmental agreement signed between Spain and the United States in January 2019. This agreement aimed to modernize Spain's CH-47D fleet by rebuilding and adapting each aircraft to CH-47F standards, significantly enhancing capabilities for military transport operations.
As part of this program, the helicopters were also equipped with Talium, an advanced mission planning system provided by Spanish company Indra (Picture source: Ejercito Tierra)
The CH-47F Chinook, also known as the Improved Cargo Helicopter, plays a critical role in transporting troops, equipment, and cargo in global combat and contingency operations for the U.S. Army. Capable of lifting payloads exceeding 9,000 kg, it remains the Army's sole heavy-lift helicopter capable of intra-theater transport missions. Upgraded from the CH-47D model, the CH-47F features an advanced digital cockpit with a data bus that supports enhanced communication and navigation equipment, improving situational awareness, mission performance, and crew safety. Structural modifications to the airframe reduce vibrations, increasing operational lifespan.
Noteworthy upgrades include the T55-GA-714A engines, which improve fuel efficiency and lift capacity, coupled with the ERFS II fuel system, extending the operational range and enabling autonomous deployment. With a transport capacity of 36 soldiers or up to 24 stretchers, the CH-47F also excels in external cargo transport, handling tandem loads of up to 11,793 kg. This versatile helicopter is in use by several international forces, including Australia, Egypt, and Spain, and represents a strategic asset for logistical and force projection missions.
The modernization process began with the first converted helicopter in late 2021, undergoing extensive testing before its delivery to Spain. Upgrading to the CH-47F model provides the Spanish Armed Forces with optimized equipment for a range of missions, enhancing readiness for operational demands.
As part of this program, the helicopters were also equipped with Talium, an advanced mission planning system provided by Spanish company Indra. Commissioned by the Directorate General of Armaments and Material (DGAM) for €15 million, Talium enhances helicopter efficiency and safety in complex environments. As one of the most sophisticated mission planning systems, it offers the Spanish Army’s Airmobile Force (FAMET) advanced strategic preparation capabilities.
The delivery of the seventeenth helicopter concludes this phase of the modernization program, but further steps are planned. In July 2023, a new production agreement was signed between the U.S. Department of Defense and Boeing, including the delivery of an eighteenth CH-47F for Spain. This additional unit, expected by 2026, will further strengthen Spain’s operational capability.
The CH-47F Chinook is a key asset for the Spanish armed forces, particularly in supporting transport missions for all military branches. Alongside NHIndustries’ multi-role NH90TTH helicopters, this fleet provides additional operational flexibility, allowing units to conduct diverse operations across various environments.