U.S. defense and aerospace products manufacturer Collins Aerospace will integrate its Common Avionics Architecture System avionics management suite into the British Royal Air Force’s new fleet of H-47 Chinook helicopters.
In a press release on Tuesday, the RTX business announced that it has received a $19 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense to upgrade the Chinook’s capabilities. Rishi Sunak’s Conservative government announced the contract for 14 state-of-the-art Boeing CH-47ERs in March.
Collins said the CAAS, with its Flight2 open systems architecture design, is a cost-effective solution with flexible cockpit displays, fully integrated flight and mission avionics systems management, and integrated digital map and tactical situational awareness displays.
Dave Schreck, vice president and general manager of Military Avionics and Helicopters at Collins Aerospace, highlighted the interoperability benefits offered by the avionics system.
“Having the same battle-proven, modernized flight deck technology on both U.K. and U.S. aircraft will enable our forces to collaborate more seamlessly, lower their workload, and increase operational effectiveness and safety in challenging environments,” he said.