U.K.Orders 14 Boeing Chinook Extended-range (CH47-ER) Helicopters

Britain’s heavy lift capability will be bolstered with the purchase of 14 extended-range Chinook Helicopters (CH47-ER) from Boeing.

The helicopter has double the range of a standard Chinook and is capable of air-to-air refuelling, with the ability to carry up to 55 personnel or 10,000 kg of cargo, the U.K. MoD announced Thursday.

With a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour, the new helicopters will have a range of new capabilities, including an advanced digital cockpit and a modernised airframe to increase stability and survivability.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps announced the commitment to proceed with the contract after meeting crew members from one of the Chinooks in the Royal Air Force’s existing fleet.

Through successful negotiations between MOD’s procurement arm - Defence Equipment & Support - and the US Government, the UK has reduced costs for elements of the programme by more than £300 million.

As part of the deal, UK companies will also produce components critical for manufacturing and maintaining the Chinooks, supporting jobs in areas such as aircraft avionics and electric power, supporting skills development and wider UK industry.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

“Procuring these Chinook helicopters will mark a significant milestone in our efforts to modernise and enhance the agility of the UK Armed Forces, cementing our ability to respond at pace to situations and threats across the globe.”