14 state-of-the art Chinook helicopters to provide versatile
heavy-lift capability over double the range of a standard
Chinook.
Programme now confirmed to bring in an estimated £151 million of
extra investment to UK economy.
UK companies will produce components critical for manufacturing
and maintaining the helicopters.
Britain’s heavy lift capability will be bolstered with the
purchase of 14 extended-range Chinooks (CH47-ER), which will pump
an estimated £151 million into the UK economy.
The new Chinooks significantly enhance the UK’s strategic
mobility with its ability to operate in challenging environments.
From the desert to the arctic, 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.
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 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, ensuring value for money whilst providing our armed
forces with a cutting-edge heavy lift capability.
Defence Secretary 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.
The Chinook is one of our most iconic aircraft, having been
operated in every major conflict since the Falklands War.
Delivering on this deal not only enhances our capability,
but will boost UK industry and skills.
The Defence Secretary also visited Poland yesterday and met his
counterpart to discuss international support for Ukraine, and
made a further visit to meet British troops currently exercising
in Poland.
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.
Beyond the Chinook, the Government’s extensive negotiations with
United States has helped to enshrine critical reforms into law
that will benefit the UK. These laws will increase the speed and
predictability of military procurement from the US going forward,
and will strengthen shared partnerships like AUKUS through
technology sharing.
