Canada orders 15 Chinooks

[Boeing crew!]

Boeing has received a $1.15 billion contract from the Canadian government for 15 new CH-47F Chinook medium-to-heavy-lift helicopters that will be built at the Boeing Rotorcraft Systems facility in Philadelphia, Pa.

Speaking Aug. 10 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where the announcement was made, Jack Dougherty, vice president, H-47 Programs, said the contract would benefit Canadian companies through direct and indirect Chinook work placed in Canada, and further stabilize the Chinook production line in Philadelphia.

"Boeing Rotorcraft Systems teammates are proud to continue the tradition of building the venerable Chinook helicopters and pleased to have an agreement with the Canadian government for delivery of 15 helicopters," said Dougherty. "I commend the efforts of the team that’s worked cooperatively to successfully finalize this agreement."

Designated the CH-147 in Canada, the Chinooks have been contracted to meet Canada’s Medium-to-Heavy Lift Helicopter program requirements. Deliveries are expected to occur between 2013 and 2014.

Along with the total $1.15 billion Boeing will reinvest as part of the contract to deliver the aircraft, Boeing could provide industry benefits in excess of $2 billion over 20 years for potential performance-based in-service support of the CH-147 fleet including aircraft maintenance training systems and services, engineering support, supply chain management and other expertise.

(C) boeing news

[frank kramer]

Tsss.... remember what happened to the last batch of Canadian Chinooks? Weren't they sold on to some European air force (RNLAF wasn't it?) by the Canadians when they no longer fitted in their plans? Maybe we can get these as well.. Go Gilze!