- Boeing, Kawasaki Heavy Industries continue partnership on Japanese Chinook fleet
- Japan becomes the fourth global customer to modernize to the Block II configuration
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 13, 2025 — The Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) has ordered 17 CH-47 Block II Chinooks Extended Range to modernize its fleet, replacing some of its CH-47 JA aircraft. The aircraft will be co-produced by Boeing and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI).
Boeing and KHI have delivered over 100 Chinooks to the JSDF since the 1980s, making it one of the longest lasting and most successful license manufacturing programs in Japan.
“This award strengthens our decades-long relationship with KHI and provides critical capability improvements that will keep the Japan Self-Defense Forces operating heavy-lift aircraft for decades to come,” said Heather McBryan, vice president and program manager, Boeing Cargo Programs. “The Block II configuration and digital flight controls will modernize and significantly improve Japan’s helicopter transport capabilities by improving aircraft stability, safety, and efficiency.”
The Block II Chinook extended range aircraft is the next generation of heavy-lift, and multi-mission helicopter. This aircraft features an advanced digital cockpit, reinforced airframe, enhanced fuel tanks, and other improvements allowing increased performance and commonality with the expanding global fleet of updated Chinooks. The adoption of the modern aircraft design and avionics architecture enables future technology upgrades and the ability to further expand operational capabilities.
Japan joins the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany as the fourth global customer for this advanced configuration, ensuring the JSDF remains at the forefront of heavy-lift aviation for years to come.
A leading global aerospace company and top U.S. exporter, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. Our U.S. and global workforce and supplier base drive innovation, economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing is committed to fostering a culture based on our core values of safety, quality and integrity.
READ MORE ROTOR PRO: https://justhelicopters.com/Magazine
WATCH ROTOR PRO YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://buff.ly/3Md0T3y
You can also find us on
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rotorpro1
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/rotorpro1
Twitter - https://twitter.com/justhelicopters
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/rotorpro1