The deal brings Boeing’s Block II production total to 18 aircraft as the Army invests in modernizing heavy-lift capabilities amid the company’s broader production challenges.
Boeing secured a $461 million contract from the US Army for nine CH-47F Block II Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, the defense contractor announced Oct. 21, bringing the total number of Block II aircraft under contract to 18.
The deal, structured across two production lots designated Four and Five, marks the Army’s latest investment in modernizing its rotorcraft capabilities as it prioritizes heavy-lift capacity for troop transport, cargo operations and special missions in demanding operational environments.
The CH-47F Block II represents the newest configuration of the tandem-rotor helicopter, incorporating upgraded avionics systems, structural improvements and enhanced sustainment features compared to earlier variants. Boeing’s ability to deliver on schedule and maintain quality standards will prove critical, particularly given recent production challenges that have affected the company’s broader operations.
The procurement aligns with the Army’s multi-domain operations strategy, which emphasizes rapid deployment capabilities and sustained logistics support in contested theaters. Heavy-lift helicopters remain essential for moving personnel, equipment and supplies in austere locations where the CH-47F Block II’s range and payload capacity provide operational advantages.
For Boeing, the Chinook production line offers steady revenue amid difficulties in its commercial aviation division. Military contracts require the company to demonstrate cost discipline, reliable delivery timelines and future development potential to secure additional orders.
The CH-47 Chinook entered service in 1962 after Vertol developed the original design in the 1950s. The helicopter saw extensive deployment during the Vietnam War and has since become a fixture in Army aviation, with the National Guard and Army Reserve also operating the type. Boeing acquired Vertol in 1960 and subsequently expanded Chinook production and exports to numerous allied nations.
More than 1,200 Chinooks have been manufactured over nearly 65 years of continuous production. The aircraft has earned recognition for combat effectiveness while also serving in disaster relief operations and limited civilian applications.
The CH-47F Block II completed its first flight in 2024. The Army plans a Block III upgrade in coming years, with current fleet modernization strategies projecting Chinook operations extending past the 2060s. Should the aircraft remain in service until that timeframe, it would rank among the longest-serving platforms in US military aviation history, potentially operating for more than a century after its initial introduction.
The Chinook family includes numerous variants developed for US military branches, international customers and civilian operators. US military versions range from the original CH-47A through the current CH-47F and specialized MH-47G models. Export variants serve air forces including Japan’s CH-47J series and the United Kingdom’s HC fleet. Civilian versions include the Model 234 series and Model 414 configurations, though military applications dominate production.
Reuters first reported the contract announcement.
Key Takeaways
Boeing received a $461 million contract for nine CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters across two production lots.
The deal brings total Block II aircraft under contract to 18, supporting Army heavy-lift modernization priorities.
The CH-47F Block II features upgraded avionics and structural enhancements over earlier Chinook variants.
More than 1,200 Chinooks have been built since 1962, with operations projected to continue past the 2060s.
Boeing faces pressure to demonstrate production reliability given recent quality challenges across its operations.
