The potential agreement includes the supply of 60 CH-47F Block II transport helicopters and associated equipment, valued at up to $8.5 billion. The necessary certification was issued by the agency on May 11, and the potential sale was notified to the US Congress.
The package also includes 140 T-55-GA-714A aviation engines, with 120 installed and 20 spare, as well as missile warning systems for the helicopters (60 installed and 12 spare), radio stations, navigation systems, modification kits, technical support, assistance in aircraft readiness, helicopter transportation, training, and maintenance support. The principal contractor will be Boeing Helicopter Company.
The American-made Chinook helicopters will replace Germany's aging CH-53 fleet. The CH-47 helicopters and their variants are widely used by various countries worldwide for a range of transportation, military, and search-and-rescue missions. The US military has been utilizing the Chinook helicopters since the 1960s.
The CH-47F Block II, developed by Boeing, features composite rotor blades, more powerful engines, and upgraded onboard electronics compared to the base model. These enhancements have increased the helicopter's payload capacity by 1.8 tons. The Block II version also boasts improved generators and a fuel system that reduces weight and increases fuel volume.
According to the Agency for Security and Defense Cooperation: "The proposed sale will improve Germany’s heavy lift capability. Germany intends to use this enhanced capability to strengthen its homeland defense and deter regional threats. Germany will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and services into its armed forces."
Source: DSCA
