 |
| Boeing's CH-47F Chinook helicopter / Courtesy of Boeing |
By Lee Hyo-jin
Korea has signed a deal with U.S. defense giant Boeing to purchase 18 CH-47F Chinook helicopters, according to the American company, Thursday.
Under the Foreign Military Sale deal, Boeing will deliver 18 multi-mission, heavy-lift helicopters by 2026 to Korea to replace some of the Korean Army's CH-47D helicopters.
The CH-47F boasts advanced, mission-critical capabilities, including an advanced common avionics glass cockpit system and a modern digital automatic flight control system, according to Boeing. The loading system, incorporated into the modernized machined airframe, further expands the efficiency and effectiveness of the platform through rapid configuration changes.
The digitally enhanced systems and modernized structures reduce maintenance and lower sustainment and support costs, and thus bring enhanced safety and improved situational awareness to protect the crew and passengers, it added.
"The modern, proven and versatile CH-47F aircraft adds increased capability to the South Korean Warfighter," said Heather McBryan, H-47 vice president and program manager. "The CH-47F is the preeminent heavy-lift helicopter in the world and will play a vital role in the heavy-lift space for years to come."
Korea currently operates a fleet of over 40 CH-47D Chinooks. Through the latest order, the fleet will soon be joined by 18 newly-built Chinooks, all of which will be in the latest CH-47F configuration.
"This is a significant step for Korea in modernizing its fleet and reinforcing its defense capabilities. This marks a new milestone in our broad and deep commitment to Korea, and we're proud to build on the long-standing collaboration through these state-of-the-art Chinooks." said Eric John, Boeing Korea President.
The U.S. firm said it will work closely with the U.S. government to ensure a seamless delivery process and provide comprehensive training and support solutions to maximize operational readiness
Boeing said it is committed to supporting the Korea-U.S. alliance ― which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year ― vowing that it will continue to be a key component of Korea's rapidly growing aerospace sector.
In 2022, the U.S. aircraft manufacturer spent over 320 billion won ($250 million) with over 50 Korean companies that provide products and services for the firm.
![[INTERVIEW] How AmazeVR revolutionizes aespa's LYNK-POP concert](https://img.koreatimes.co.kr/upload/thumbnailV2/4431833759c44bdaa414cb314e90f2fe.jpg/dims/resize/178/optimize)
