UK to purchase 14 H-47ER Chinook heavy helicopters

The Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom has signed a contract with the American company Boenig for the purchase of 14 H-47ER Chinook transport helicopters.

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One of the key benefits of the new H-47ER version is an increase in the maximum range, which will enable it to be used more effectively in special operations and transport missions.

Grant Shapps, the UK Secretary of State for Defence, stressed the importance of the deal, calling it a milestone in the modernisation of the Armed Forces. The value of the deal was estimated at over USD 1 billion, but successful negotiations reduced it by over USD 300 million.

The contract also provides for the replacement of outdated Chinook models still in service in the UK. The first helicopters are scheduled to be delivered in 2027, and the parties are expected to fully comply with the terms of the contract by 2029.

Source: Ministry of Defence