Japan orders 17 CH-47 Block II Chinooks to modernise fleet

Replacing JSDF’s CH-47 JA aircraft

The Japan Self-Defence Forces (JSDF) has ordered 17 Boeing CH-47 Block II Chinook Extended Range helicopters, marking a significant step in modernising its fleet.

The new helicopters will replace some of the JSDF’s older CH-47 JA aircraft. This latest acquisition will see Boeing and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) collaborate on co-producing the advanced military aircraft.

Boeing and KHI have a long-standing partnership with the JSDF, delivering over 100 Chinooks since the 1980s. The partnership is one of Japan’s most successful and enduring license manufacturing programs. The new CH-47 Block II Chinook will enhance the JSDF’s capabilities, offering better performance, efficiency, and safety than its predecessors.

Heather McBryan, Vice President And Programme Manager for Boeing Cargo Programmes, expressed the significance of the order: “This award strengthens our decades-long relationship with KHI and provides critical capability improvements that will keep the Japan Self-Defence Forces operating heavy-lift aircraft for decades to come.” The Block II configuration boasts modern features such as digital flight controls, improved aircraft stability, and a reinforced airframe.

The Block II Chinook Extended Range is the latest generation of heavy-lift helicopters. It includes an advanced digital cockpit, reinforced airframe, and enhanced fuel tanks, all of which contribute to increased operational performance in all kinds of weather.

The modernisation of avionics and design improves the current capability. It paves the way for future technology upgrades, ensuring the Block II Chinook Extended Range aircraft remains at the cutting edge of military aviation.

The JSDF’s acquisition of the Block II Chinook places Japan among a select group of countries. Japan became the fourth global customer for this advanced configuration, joining the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

This ensures that the JSDF will remain at the forefront of heavy-lift aviation capabilities for years, strengthening its operational readiness and strategic flexibility.

Image: The new helicopters will replace some of the JSDF’s older CH-47 JA aircraft. Credit: Boeing