Breaking News
Poland Considers Acquisition of CH-47F Chinook Heavy Transport Helicopters to Address Logistical Gaps.
In an interview on October 15, 2024, with the Portal Obronny, Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced that Poland is seriously considering the acquisition of heavy transport helicopters including the CH-47 Chinook, to address a critical shortfall within its armed forces. He emphasized the need for larger helicopters capable of carrying heavy loads and more troops to inaccessible areas, while also facilitating the evacuation of personnel. The minister noted that an order could be finalized shortly, signaling a shift in Warsaw’s logistical strategy in response to operational challenges and recent crises.
Kosiniak-Kamysz mentioned the potential purchase of the CH-47F Chinook, an American-made model by Boeing (Picture source: Netherlands MoD)
This decision aligns with Poland’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military capabilities since the war in Ukraine began. Despite the acquisition of numerous assets, including M1A2 Abrams tanks, F-35A fighters, and HIMARS artillery systems, the absence of heavy transport helicopters remains a notable gap. The urgency of this need became apparent during relief operations following last month’s storm "Boris," which caused widespread flooding in Poland. These events highlighted the necessity for helicopters capable of carrying larger numbers of people, supplies, and heavy materials required to temporarily repair damaged flood defenses.
While the Polish Navy has already acquired four AW-101 helicopters for anti-submarine warfare missions, which also belong to the heavy transport category, Kosiniak-Kamysz mentioned the potential purchase of the CH-47F Chinook, an American-made model by Boeing. Already in service with several NATO members, this helicopter's interoperability could be a decisive factor in Poland’s choice. Germany, for instance, cited this reason when it decided in 2022 to purchase 60 of these helicopters.
The CH-47F Chinook is a heavy transport helicopter designed to carry substantial loads under varied conditions. Equipped with two Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines, each providing 4,777 shp, it can reach a maximum speed of 315 km/h and carry over 9,500 kg of payload. Its cargo area spans 42m³, allowing for the transportation of up to 50 troops or two HMMWVs. The cabin can also be configured for medical evacuation, accommodating 24 stretchers. The Chinook’s triple-hook system enables the external transport of heavy loads, making it essential for complex logistical missions.
The CH-47F Chinook is a heavy transport helicopter designed to carry substantial loads under varied conditions (Picture source: Netherlands MoD)
In terms of armament, the CH-47F is equipped with three machine guns, two mounted on the starboard crew door and one on the port side. Its advanced avionics include the Rockwell Collins Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS) and BAE Systems' Digital Advanced Flight Control System (DAFCS), enhancing navigation and communication capabilities. Combined with a reinforced structure, these systems allow the Chinook to operate in challenging environments while minimizing maintenance requirements.
Another option for Poland could be the CH-53K King Stallion, offered by Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed-Martin. However, the Chinook seems to have an advantage due to its integration within NATO forces and defense cooperation agreements. The number of helicopters Poland plans to acquire has not yet been disclosed, but this information is expected once the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DCSA), the U.S. body responsible for military equipment exports, delivers its opinion on the potential purchase.