The United States Army has awarded Boeing a $324 million contract for six CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters, the company said Wednesday, as part of efforts to expand heavy-lift capabilities and accelerate delivery of critical equipment.

The contract brings the total number of CH-47F Block II aircraft under procurement to 24, reflecting continued investment in the Army’s cargo helicopter fleet and its modernization strategy.

Boeing said the agreement forms part of the Army’s broader acquisition plan aimed at ensuring faster deployment of logistics platforms in operational environments. The latest award, referred to as Lot 6, follows earlier contracts issued last year, including the first under the Army’s Rapid Fielding initiative.

“Consistent production awards reflect the Army’s confidence in the CH-47F Block II as a critical capability for handling logistics in challenging environments,” said Heather McBryan, vice president and programme manager for cargo programmes at Boeing Defense, Space & Security. She added that the upgraded helicopters would provide “greater operational reach, faster resupply and enhanced protection” for forces operating in austere and contested settings.

The CH-47F Block II variant includes several technical upgrades over previous models. These include a strengthened drivetrain and airframe that increases maximum gross weight by 4,000 pounds, enabling greater lift capacity. The aircraft also incorporates modifications to its fuel system to extend mission range, alongside improvements designed to support maintenance and future upgrades.

Boeing has already delivered six CH-47F Block II helicopters to the Army. The service is preparing to field its first operational unit equipped with the upgraded platform by mid-2028, following the delivery of earlier production batches.

The Chinook, a tandem-rotor helicopter widely used for troop transport and heavy-lift missions, remains a central component of U.S. military logistics operations. The Block II upgrade programme is expected to enhance operational flexibility, particularly in complex and high-threat environments.

Source: Boeing PR