US Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC) has awarded Boeing a $115m contract to produce two more MH-47G Block II Chinook aircraft and begin advanced procurement on future helicopters.

Including the new order, the service has contracted for a total of 46 MH-47G Block II aircraft. 

“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,” said Heather McBryan, cargo programmes vice president and programme manager for Boeing Defense, Space & Security. “It is our privilege to support ongoing USASOAC modernisation efforts that will continue to have a real-world impact on US national security.”

USASOAC’s Chinook modernisation program supports more than 20,000 jobs and 360 suppliers in 40 states across the US Chinook Block II production leverages and strengthens the manufacturing base that will provide support to the production line for new aircraft and fleet sustainment.

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 modernisation efforts, keeping the iconic heavy-lift helicopter flying for decades to come.

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