Story by Boeing, Image by Military_Material
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, February 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 1980’s, making it one of the longest lasting and most successful license manufacturing programs in Japan.
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.