The Japan Self-Defense Forces have ordered 17 Boeing CH-47JA Block II Chinooks Extended Range helicopters to modernize its fleet. Boeing said the new Chinooks will replace older CH-47JA models and maintain Japan’s advanced heavy-lift capabilities.
According to a Janes report, Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency awarded Kawasaki Heavy Industries $11.1 million in contracts to produce the new variants of the Boeing aircraft. Twelve CH-47JAs are designated for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and five CH-47Js will go to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.
“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 of Boeing Cargo Programs. Since the 1980s, Boeing and KHI have co-produced over 100 Chinooks for the JSDF, representing one of Japan’s longest-running license manufacturing programs.
According to Boeing, the next-generation Block II Chinook Extended Range variant incorporates an advanced digital cockpit, reinforced airframe and enhanced fuel tanks. The version’s modern design and avionics architecture allow for future technology upgrades and expanded operational capabilities.
Japan has become the fourth global customer for the Block II Chinook, joining the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany. Last October, the Polish government said it was considering acquiring heavy-lift helicopters like the Chinook to improve its logistics capabilities.