Boeing has secured a $426-million contract to deliver 12 CH-47F Chinook helicopters to the Egyptian Air Force.
The deal comes more than seven months after the US State Department gave the African nation the green light to procure up to 23 “F” models of the heavy-lift chopper.
The $2.6-billion potential foreign military sale approved last year included navigation and missile warning systems, machine guns, and radar warning receivers.
According to Boeing, the 12 Chinook helicopters would enhance Cairo’s military capabilities and help the air force accomplish its heavy-lift objectives.
The aircraft would also allow the US ally to replace its fleet of CH-47Ds with the updated “F” model featuring advanced multi-mission capabilities.
“Boeing’s partnership with the Egyptian Air Force remains strong as we continue to work together to modernize their fleet,” company vice president Ken Eland said.
Egypt was approved to buy 23 CH-47F aircraft with the option to purchase 11 more.
‘Strengthening Homeland Defense’
Boeing’s CH-47F Chinook is an advanced multi-role helicopter with an upgraded digital cockpit suitable for operations in adverse environments.
It has a common avionics architecture system and advanced cargo-handling capabilities for rapid response.
The chopper’s primary mission is to transport forces and associated equipment, but it can also perform medical evacuation, search and rescue, parachute drops, and aircraft recovery.
The Chinook has a triple-hook system that provides stability for large external loads, such as 155mm howitzers and other military vehicles.
According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, Egypt’s move to bolster its heavy-lift capability will strengthen its homeland defense and deter regional threats.
“Boeing is committed to supporting the defense modernization mission of the Egyptian armed forces and ensuring the best capability for Egypt’s national defense and security,” Boeing vice president Vince Logsdon explained.