The British Ministry of Defense stated its agreement to acquire 14 new Boeing CH-47ER Chinook helicopters to increase the heavy transport capabilities of its Royal Air Force (RAF).
British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps on Thursday confirmed it as part of the Chinook Capability Sustainment Program .
The UK set the base budget for the program at £1.5 billion (1.9 billion USD) but inflation, foreign exchange rates, and other issues increased costs.
The current delivery schedule has not been published, although a website operated by the Defense Equipment & Support section of the Ministry of Defense says first deliveries are set for 2027 with the production program ending in 2029.
This new helicopter will replace the role of the old Chinook in the RAF. Currently there are approximately 51 Chinook helicopters from the original 60. Some of the old fleet has been retired.
