The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded Boeing an $876 million Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract to supply up to 60 CH-47F Block II Chinook helicopters to Germany, marking a major step in Berlin’s long-planned heavy-lift modernization effort. The acquisition significantly enhances Germany’s rapid-reinforcement capability within NATO’s eastern defense posture.
Authorized on October 27, 2025, the contract includes performance-based logistics, training packages, non-recurring engineering, and associated support. Work will be carried out at Boeing’s Ridley Park facility in Pennsylvania, with final completion expected by October 2035.
A €7 Billion German Investment in Strategic Mobility
The Chinook purchase forms the core of Germany’s €7 billion heavy-lift program, funded through the Sondervermögen special defense fund, created under Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Zeitenwende initiative. The new fleet will replace the ageing CH-53G Sea Stallion helicopters, with operational basing planned primarily at Holzdorf and Laupheim under Helicopter Wing 64.
The acquisition is central to NATO’s regional defense plans, enabling rapid movement of forces to the eastern flank and strengthening collective deterrence against potential threats.
CH-47F Block II: The Most Advanced Chinook Yet
The CH-47F Block II is the latest evolution of the iconic heavy-lift helicopter, offering:
- Up to 12 tons of payload capacity,
- Transport for 36 troops or 24 stretchers,
- Two Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines delivering speeds up to 302 km/h,
- Composite rotor blades, strengthened airframe, and a redesigned fuel system for greater lift in hot-and-high conditions.
Germany’s tailored version includes NATO-compatible secure radios, SATCOM, upgraded IFF, digital avionics, night-vision compatibility, and a full survivability suite. Equipped with air-to-air refueling probes, the helicopters can execute long-range missions alongside KC-130J or A400M tankers.
A Seamless Fit Within NATO’s Multinational Chinook Community
With widespread use among NATO members including the U.S., U.K., Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Greece, Turkey, and Canada, the CH-47F offers Germany immediate integration into a seasoned multinational user community—bringing aligned logistics, joint training, and streamlined coalition operations.
Industrial Participation Strengthens Germany’s Defense Base
Boeing’s Chinook team for Germany includes major German industry partners such as Airbus Helicopters Deutschland, ESG, and Lufthansa Technik. These firms will handle maintenance, depot support, and training, turning Germany into a central support hub for Chinook fleets across Central Europe.
