Boeing receives $240 million contract from US Army for 5 MH-47G Block II Chinook aircraft
News, US March 31, 2025 No Comments on Boeing receives $240 million contract from US Army for 5 MH-47G Block II Chinook aircraft3 minute read
U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC) awarded leading aerospace company Boeing a $240 million contract for five additional MH-47G Block II Chinook helicopters, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027.
In 2024, USASOAC procured four MH-47G Block II helicopters, bringing the Army’s total number of these aircraft under contract to 51. Boeing plans to complete the full USASOAC Chinook fleet by early 2030.
Cargo Programs vice president and program manager for Boeing Defense, Space & Security, Heather McBryan said, “Supporting the needs of our special operators continues to be critically important.”
He further highlighted that the “USASOAC has unique and complex mission requirements, so it’s vital we provide the enhanced capabilities of the MH-47G Block II as quickly as possible.”
According to McBryan, the Chinook helicopters remain critical to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command’s modernization priorities, and the aircraft not only supports the warfighters’ needs today but enables the Chinook to be battle-relevant well into the future.
With growing regional security concerns and an evolving geopolitical landscape, the U.S. Army’s investment in modernized military assets reflects its commitment to maintaining a strong, versatile, and technologically advanced defense force.
The Chinook heavy-lift helicopters are being used by the U.S. Army and 20 international operators. It is an advanced, multi-mission, tandem rotor helicopter, proven in cargo and troop transport, search and rescue, casualty evacuation, special operations, and humanitarian and disaster relief.
MH-47G Block II Helicopter
The MH-47G Block II is an upgraded variant of the model with an improved structure. It features new, lighter-weight fuel pods to improve performance, efficiency, and commonality across the fleet. Chinook Block II combines new technologies, including Advanced Chinook Rotor Blade, redesigned fuel tanks, a strengthened fuselage, and an improved drivetrain.
The cutting-edge Block II heavy-lift helicopter is specifically designed for the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command. As an upgraded version of the CH-47 Chinook, it offers enhanced lift, range, and mission versatility to support demanding special operations missions. The MH-47G Block II is capable of executing long-range infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply missions, often in austere conditions where other aircraft may struggle.
The aircraft contains a fully integrated, digital cockpit management system – the Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS) Cockpit paired with a Digital Automatic Flight Control System (DAFCS) – as well as advanced cargo-handling capabilities that complement the aircraft’s mission performance and improve situational awareness.
Its avionics include enhanced mission management systems, upgraded navigation, and communications technology, which ensure seamless coordination in complex operational environments. The helicopter is also designed with an improved electrical system, which provides greater power distribution to support current and future technological upgrades, making it a future-ready platform.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 98 ft 10 in (30.12 m)
- Height: 18 ft 11 in (5.77 m)
- Rotor Diameter: 60 ft (18.29 m)
- Maximum Speed: ~170 knots (315 km/h)
- Cruise Speed: ~160 knots (296 km/h)
- Range: Over 400 nautical miles (740+ km) with internal fuel
- Service Ceiling: ~20,000 ft (6,100 m)
- Engines: 2 × Honeywell T55-GA-714A turboshaft engines
Related Articles
Publications
IRIA Defense Review
Defense Exercises
IRIA Exclusive
Infographics
Leave a comment