In June, U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC) awarded Boeing a $115 million contract to produce two more MH-47G Block II Chinook aircraft and begin advanced procurement on future helicopters. Including the new order, the Army has contracted for a total of 46 MH-47G Block II aircraft. USASOAC’s Chinook modernization program supports more than 20,000 jobs and 360 suppliers in 40 states across the U.S. Chinook Block II production leverages and strengthens the manufacturing base that will provide support to the production line for new aircraft and fleet sustainment. On 1 September 2020, Boeing announced the delivery of the first MH-47G Block II to USASOC of an initial order of 24, with a stated ultimate requirement for 69.
“Whether it’s operating in the dead of night or in difficult terrain, the MH-47G Block II is a proven workhorse for special operations. It is our privilege to support ongoing USASOAC modernization efforts that will continue to have a real-world impact on U.S. national security,” said Heather McBryan, Cargo Programs vice president and program manager for Boeing Defense, Space & Security.
The MH-47G Special Operations Aviation (SOA) version is similar to the MH-47E, but features more sophisticated avionics including a digital Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS). The CAAS is a common glass cockpit used by helicopters such as MH-60K/Ls, CH-53E/Ks, and ARH-70As. With a reinforced airframe, redesigned fuel tanks and state-of-the-art avionics, the MH-47G Block II heavy-lift helicopter improves USASOAC’S global reach capabilities. In addition, the Block II design enables future affordable modernization efforts, keeping the iconic heavy-lift helicopter flying for decades to come. It is armed with two 7.62 mm M134 Miniguns and two M240 7.62 mm machine guns.
The Boeing CH-47 Chinook is a tandem-rotor helicopter originally developed by American rotorcraft company Vertol and now manufactured by Boeing Defense, Space & Security. As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity.
