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Boeing has confirmed that the US Army has authorised Lots 4 and 5 of a planned CH-47F Block II Chinook order, worth US$461 million (AU$698.5 million) as the US accelerates modernisation efforts.
The Army’s decision authorises procurement of Block II Chinooks in FY2024–25 and FY25–26, complementing earlier congressional procurements that will see two Combat Aviation Brigades equipped with the upgraded heavy-lift helicopters. The move marks a major milestone in modernising the Army’s vertical lift fleet for future large-scale operations.
To date, six CH-47F Block II aircraft have been delivered and are undergoing operational evaluation to validate their expanded performance envelope.
“The rapid succession of contracts shows that the Chinook will remain a vital part of the US Army’s family of systems, especially in contested logistics environments,” said Heather McBryan, vice president and program manager, Cargo Programs, Boeing Defense, Space & Security.
The Block II upgrade delivers significant capability improvements, including a strengthened airframe and drivetrain that increase maximum gross weight by 1,800 kilograms, taking the total to 25,000 kilograms. A redesigned fuel system extends range across nearly all payloads, while structural and sustainment enhancements improve readiness and reduce long-term cost.
Designed for at least another four decades of service, the Block II incorporates a Modular Open Systems Approach under the Common Avionics Architecture System. This digital backbone enables seamless integration of emerging technologies, including degraded visual environment sensors, semi-autonomous flight systems, and future full-autonomy capabilities.
“Block II is about more than incremental improvement – it’s about ensuring the Army and the Joint Force retain a heavy-lift advantage in contested environments,” said Colonel Jennie Conlon, program manager, US Army Cargo Helicopters.
McBryan added that Boeing’s partnership with the Army and strong support from Congress are vital to delivering the modernised platform.
Boeing has also invested heavily in next-generation avionics, mission systems integration and open systems architecture, positioning the Chinook to maintain decisive overmatch in Joint All-Domain Operations.
With its increased payload, range and digital adaptability, the CH-47F Block II is set to remain a cornerstone of the US Army’s heavy-lift capability – ready to meet the demands of future battlefields for decades to come.
