Boeing to deliver 60 MK6 14 Chinooks to UK.

Boeing has issued 60 MK6 14 Chinooks to the UK. The completion of the order coincided with the 35th anniversary of Chinook operations in the UK.

“Since entering service in the 1980s, our Chinook fleet has played an integral support role for British forces and has been deployed on an almost continuous basis ever since,” said Air Vice Marshal Julian Young, Director of Helicopters, Royal Air Force, United States. “These new Mark-6 helicopters will significantly enhance our heavy and special forces helicopter capabilities. Our global fleet of 60 Chinooks will support our frontline forces in current and future operations for decades to come.”

The RAF has operated Chinooks in every major NATO engagement since 1980 on almost every continent. The service uses its Chinooks to perform troop transport, air assault and medical evacuation missions. In addition, the RAF and UK Defense Equipment and Support have worked closely with Boeing to implement performance-based logistics initiatives to increase the availability of the UK Chinook fleet. The Mk6 Chinook features a new machined fuselage, UK-specific avionics, a life-saving elevator, and interoperable communications and navigation equipment.

“As our company approaches its 100th anniversary, milestones like these demonstrate the importance of Boeing’s long and close partnership with the United Kingdom,” said Steve Parker, Boeing Helicopters vice president of cargo and H-47 Chinook program manager. “The new MK6 Chinooks provide the Royal Air Force with a modern asset that can meet its mission requirements today and into the future.”