Japan Orders 17 Next-Generation Boeing CH-47 Chinook Helicopters
Japan has awarded Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) a contract to produce 17 CH-47 Block II Chinooks heavy-lift helicopters to enhance the capabilities of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF). This acquisition includes 12 CH-47 Block II Chinooks extended-range variants for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) and five CH-47 Block II Chinooks standard variants for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). With this purchase, Japan became the fourth global customer for the Block II Chinook, joining the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
The Block II configuration offers significant improvements such as an advanced digital cockpit, reinforced airframe, and enhanced fuel tanks, thereby increasing performance and operational efficiency. This procurement underscores Japan’s commitment to modernizing its military assets and maintaining a robust defense posture in the region.
(Via U.S DOD)
Boeing and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) will co-produce CH-47 Chinook helicopters for Japan, continuing their long-standing partnership. Since the 1980s, Boeing and KHI have delivered over 100 Chinooks to the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), making it one of Japan’s most successful military aircraft programs. According to Boeing’s Vice President Heather McBryan, this deal strengthens Boeing’s collaboration with KHI while boosting Japan’s heavy-lift capabilities. The new Block II Chinook variant features advanced digital flight controls, improving stability, safety, and efficiency for the JSDF’s transport operations.
The CH-47F Block II Chinook features major upgrades to improve performance, efficiency, and durability. One of the most significant enhancements is the Advanced Chinook Rotor Blade (ACRB), which uses a swept-tip design to increase lift by approximately 10%, allowing the helicopter to carry heavier loads. Boeing has also redesigned the fuel system, reducing the original six fuel tanks to four. This change lowers the aircraft’s overall weight while increasing fuel capacity, endurance, and ease of maintenance. The drive system has been strengthened with a more powerful transmission and drive shafts to handle the extra power output from the Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines, ensuring greater efficiency and longevity.
Another key upgrade is the enhanced electrical system, which provides additional power output to support advanced avionics and future technological upgrades. These improvements extend the service life of the CH-47F Block II while maintaining compatibility with evolving military technologies. Despite these advancements, the helicopter retains its traditional tandem-rotor configuration, offering superior stability and control during heavy-lift missions. The CH-47F Block II is designed for various operations, including troop transport, artillery transport, and disaster relief. With these upgrades, the CH-47F Block II ensures that Chinook fleets worldwide remain a critical component of military and humanitarian missions for years to come.