The US Army has awarded Boeing a $324-million contract for six additional CH-47F Chinook helicopters in the Block II configuration, bringing the total ordered to 24.
The latest Lot 6 agreement follows two contracts from October 2025 that covered Lots 4 and 5 for a total of 18 helicopters, which support the army’s rapid fielding strategy.
As the service has already received the first six production-ready Chinooks from the Lots 1 and 2 contracts, the service is now preparing to equip its first full operational unit with these upgraded choppers no later than mid-2028, right after receiving helicopters from Lot 3.
“Consistent production awards reflect the Army’s confidence in the CH-47F Block II as a critical capability for handling logistics in challenging environments across different domains and in varying operations,” said Heather McBryan, VP and program manager of Cargo Programs at Boeing Defense, Space & Security.
Block II Chinook
The 98-foot (30-meter) long Chinook can carry up to 55 people, approximately 24,000 pounds (10,886 kilograms) of cargo, or about 20 medical stretchers, depending on mission requirements.
Powered by twin Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines, it can achieve a top speed of 170 knots (196 miles/315 kilometers per hour), a range of 1,200 nautical miles (1,399 miles/2,252 kilometers), and a service ceiling of 20,000 feet (6,096 meters).
Its Block II configuration reinforces the rotorcraft’s airframe and drivetrain, increasing maximum gross weight by 4,000 pounds (1,814 kilograms) and boosting lift capability.
Boeing also upgraded the fuel system for extended flight range and reconfigured the chopper for easier sustainment and adoption of future technology.
