Defense & Military
US Army Orders Nine More Boeing CH47F Block II Chinooks
The US Army doubles its CH-47F Block II Chinook order with nine new helicopters, enhancing payload, range, and avionics for modern heavy-lift missions.
The U.S. Army is pushing forward with a significant upgrade to its heavy-lift helicopter fleet, placing a fresh order for nine of Boeing‘s next-generation CH-47F Block II Chinooks. Announced on October 21, 2025, the deal, structured across two contracts for production Lots 4 and 5, is valued at $461 million. This move signals a clear commitment to the Chinook platform as the backbone of the Army’s vertical lift capability for the foreseeable future, ensuring that the iconic tandem-rotor helicopter remains relevant in an increasingly complex global landscape.
This latest procurement doubles the Army’s total order of Block II Chinooks to 18 aircraft, building on a modernization program designed to enhance payload, range, and overall performance. The decision follows a “Rapid Fielding” production strategy, aimed at getting these advanced military aircraft into the hands of soldiers more quickly. With six production models already delivered and undergoing rigorous operational evaluations, the Army is actively validating the capabilities that the Block II variant brings to the field. This methodical approach underscores the importance of ensuring the new Chinooks meet the demanding requirements of modern multi-domain operations.
The CH-47 Chinook has been an indispensable asset for the U.S. Army since its introduction in the 1960s, serving in every major conflict and countless humanitarian missions. The Block II program represents the most substantial evolution in the helicopter’s storied history. It’s not just about keeping an old airframe flying; it’s a comprehensive modernization effort designed to prepare the fleet for the challenges of the next 40 years. By integrating new technologies with a proven design, the Army aims to create a more capable and sustainable heavy-lift force.
The core of the CH-47F Block II upgrade is a series of significant performance enhancements. The new variant boasts a strengthened airframe and an improved drivetrain, which together increase its maximum gross weight by 4,000 pounds, bringing the total to 54,000 pounds. This increased lift capacity is a game-changer, enabling the Chinook to transport heavier equipment, such as the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), which the older Block I models could not carry. This capability is crucial for logistical operations in contested environments where speed and efficiency are paramount.
Beyond just lifting more, the Block II can fly farther. Boeing redesigned the fuel system, replacing the previous six-tank configuration with two larger, more efficient tanks. This change increases the helicopter’s fuel capacity and extends its mission radius, allowing it to deliver troops and supplies to more distant and austere locations without refueling. Combined with advanced composite rotor blades that feature a swept-tip design for better lift and efficiency, the Block II is a more capable and versatile platform for a wide range of missions.
Inside the cockpit, the aircraft is equipped with the Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS), a fully integrated, digital cockpit management system that enhances crew situational awareness. This modern avionics suite, coupled with the helicopter’s raw power, capable of reaching speeds of 170 knots (315 km/h) and altitudes up to 20,000 feet, makes the CH-47F Block II a formidable asset. It can carry up to 55 troops or over 22,000 pounds of cargo, ensuring it can meet the diverse demands of the modern battlefield.
“The rapid succession of contracts indicates that the Chinook will continue to play an important role in the U.S. Army’s family-of-systems, particularly in a contested logistics environment.” – Heather McBryan, Vice President and Program Manager, Cargo Programs, for Boeing Defense, Space and Security
The Army’s investment in the Block II program is a direct response to the evolving nature of warfare. The focus on “contested logistics” highlights the need for aircraft that can operate effectively in environments where air superiority is not guaranteed. The Chinook’s ability to move large amounts of personnel and equipment quickly and efficiently is a critical enabler for the Army’s strategic responsiveness across the full spectrum of operations. The modernization effort is not just about upgrading a helicopter; it’s about future-proofing the Army’s heavy-lift capability.
The long-term vision for the program is to upgrade the Army’s entire fleet of over 465 Chinooks to the Block II standard. This ambitious goal reflects the platform’s central role in the Army’s aviation strategy. The program also employs a cost-effective induction process, where reusable parts from Block I Chinooks are integrated with new Block II technologies. This approach saves both time and money, allowing for a more efficient and sustainable modernization process. The design of the Block II also allows for more affordable technology insertions in the future, ensuring the platform can adapt to new threats and requirements as they emerge. The program’s significance extends beyond the U.S. military. The CH-47F Block II has also attracted interest from international partners, with orders from the United Kingdom and Germany. This international adoption enhances interoperability among allied forces and strengthens the global defense industrial base. As Boeing and the Army are already in discussions for a potential Lot 6 procurement, the production line for this advanced helicopter is set to remain active for years to come, solidifying the Chinook’s status as the premier heavy-lift helicopter for Western militaries.
The U.S. Army’s latest order for nine CH-47F Block II Chinooks is a clear and decisive step in its ongoing effort to modernize its aviation fleet. This $461 million investment reinforces the enduring value of the Chinook platform while equipping it with the capabilities needed to meet the challenges of the 21st-century battlefield. With increased payload, extended range, and advanced avionics, the Block II is more than just an upgrade; it is a reimagining of what a heavy-lift helicopter can do. The program ensures that soldiers will have the vertical lift support they need to operate and win in complex and contested environments around the globe.
Looking ahead, the CH-47F Block II is poised to remain the cornerstone of U.S. Army and allied heavy-lift operations for decades. The commitment to potentially upgrade the entire fleet, combined with international interest, secures the Chinook’s production and development path. As the six initial aircraft continue their operational evaluations, the real-world feedback from soldiers will further refine the platform, ensuring it is perfectly tuned to the needs of the warfighter. The legacy of the Chinook, which began over 60 years ago, is not only being preserved but is being actively forged anew for a new era of military operations.
Question: What is the total value of the new contract for the CH-47F Block II Chinooks? Question: How many Block II Chinooks does the U.S. Army now have on order? Question: What are the main improvements of the Block II variant over the previous model? Sources: boeing.mediaroom.com
U.S. Army Doubles Down on Heavy-Lift Modernization with New Chinook Order
Enhanced Capabilities for the Modern Battlefield
A Strategic Imperative for Future Conflicts
Conclusion: A Legacy Reimagined
FAQ
Answer: The U.S. Army awarded Boeing two contracts for Lots 4 and 5, with a combined value of $461 million for nine helicopters.
Answer: This new order for nine helicopters brings the total number of CH-47F Block II aircraft under contract with the U.S. Army to 18.
Answer: The Block II features a strengthened airframe and an improved drivetrain, increasing payload capacity by 4,000 pounds. It also has a redesigned fuel system for extended range and advanced composite rotor blades for better performance.
Photo Credit: Boeing
Defense & Military
Embraer and Saab Unveil First Gripen E Fighter Produced in Brazil
Embraer and Saab unveiled the first Gripen E fighter jet assembled in Brazil, enhancing local defense manufacturing and fulfilling a 2014 contract.
This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.
On March 25, 2026, Embraer, Saab, and the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) marked a historic milestone in Latin American aerospace by unveiling the first Gripen E fighter jet manufactured on Brazilian soil. The rollout ceremony took place at Embraer’s industrial complex in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo State, officially introducing the first supersonic fighter aircraft ever produced in the country.
According to the official press release, the event drew high-profile attendees, including Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Swedish Ambassador Karin Wallensteen, and top executives from both Embraer and Saab. The presentation of the aircraft highlights a successful technology transfer program and elevates Brazil into a select group of nations capable of manufacturing advanced combat aircraft.
The newly unveiled Gripen E is the result of a deeply integrated Brazilian and international supply chain. Embraer’s Gavião Peixoto facility handles the final assembly, utilizing aerostructures manufactured at Saab’s plant in São Bernardo do Campo. According to Embraer, 14 additional aircraft will be built using this exact production model under the current FAB contract.
Before being handed over to the customer, the newly assembled fighter will undergo rigorous functional and production flight testing. Once cleared, it will join the First Defense Group (1st GDA) stationed at the Anápolis Air Force Base.
Company leadership emphasized the broader implications of the rollout. In the press release, Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, highlighted the collaborative effort:
“…it symbolizes the strength of a partnership built on trust, long‑term vision, and true cooperation.”
The foundation for this manufacturing achievement was laid in 2014 when the Brazilian government signed a comprehensive contract with Saab. The agreement covers the development and production of 36 Gripen fighters, specifically 28 single-seat Gripen E models and eight two-seat Gripen F variants.
Deliveries from Sweden began in 2020, and the press release notes that at least 10 aircraft have already been handed over to the Brazilian Air Force. The Gripen fleet is already active; since February, the fighters have been executing Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) missions from the Anápolis Air Force Base to safeguard the airspace over Brazil’s federal district. Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, noted the strategic importance of the local production capability, stating in the release:
“…developing, within Brazil, the capability to produce a high-tech supersonic fighter aircraft – fully capable of executing air superiority missions…”
We view the successful rollout of a domestically assembled Gripen E as a transformative moment for Embraer and the Brazilian defense sector. By proving it can assemble and integrate a sophisticated, network-centric supersonic fighter, Embraer significantly enhances its high-end military manufacturing portfolio. This capability not only fulfills Brazil’s immediate national security and airspace defense needs but also positions the Gavião Peixoto facility as a potential regional export and maintenance hub for South America. As neighboring countries evaluate their aging fighter fleets, we believe Brazil’s proven production line could offer Saab a strategic foothold for future Latin American sales.
Where was the first Brazilian-made Gripen E produced? How many Gripen fighters did Brazil order? How many more Gripens will be built in Brazil?
Production and Strategic Partnership
Details of the Gavião Peixoto Facility
Contract History and Operational Status
The 2014 Agreement
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The aircraft was assembled at Embraer’s industrial complex in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo State, using components including aerostructures from Saab’s facility in São Bernardo do Campo.
Under a 2014 contract, the Brazilian government ordered 36 Gripen fighters, comprising 28 single-seat Gripen E jets and 8 two-seat Gripen F jets.
According to the Embraer press release, 14 additional aircraft will be produced at the Gavião Peixoto facility under the current contract.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer
Defense & Military
Japan Expands F-35B Fleet with Delivery to Nyutabaru Air Base
Japan received three F-35B fighters at Nyutabaru Air Base, advancing its goal to deploy eight F-35Bs by fiscal year 2025 end.
In late March 2026, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) received three additional F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters at Nyutabaru Air Base in Miyazaki Prefecture. According to social media account @thef35 on X, the delivery highlights that procurement
“momentum continues” for the Japanese defense forces.
This latest arrival is a critical milestone. Based on defense research data, the delivery keeps Japan’s Ministry of Defense on track to meet its goal of deploying an initial batch of eight F-35Bs by the end of fiscal year 2025, which concludes on March 31, 2026. Japan received its first three F-35Bs on August 7, 2025, ferried by U.S. pilots, and officially activated the fleet for frontline service during a ceremony on February 7, 2026.
The integration of the Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) aircraft represents a historic shift in Japan’s defense posture. Defense reports indicate Japan plans to acquire 147 F-35s in total, 105 conventional F-35As and 42 F-35Bs, making it the largest operator of the fifth-generation fighter outside the United States.
While the F-35Bs are operated by the JASDF, defense analysts note their primary strategic value lies in their integration with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
To accommodate the STOVL aircraft, Japan has been modifying its two largest warships, the Izumo-class helicopter destroyers JS Izumo and JS Kaga. According to defense research, these modifications include reshaping the bows into a rectangular configuration and applying heat-resistant deck coatings capable of withstanding the F-35B’s powerful lift fan.
These upgrades were put to the test recently. In October 2024, a U.S. Navy and Marine Corps F-35B successfully conducted the first landing and takeoff trials on the modified JS Kaga off the coast of San Diego, California. This milestone effectively proved the vessel’s capability to operate as a light aircraft carrier, returning fixed-wing carrier aviation to the Japanese fleet for the first time since World War II.
Japan’s acquisition of the F-35B is widely viewed by defense researchers as a direct response to a tightening regional security environment, particularly the rapid military modernization and maritime maneuvers of China in the East and South China Seas. Nyutabaru Air Base is strategically located on Kyushu, Japan’s southernmost main island. Defense reports highlight that this positions the F-35B fleet in close proximity to the Nansei Islands chain, which stretches toward Taiwan and includes the Japanese-administered Senkaku Islands. The STOVL capability allows Japan to project air power from the sea and operate from shorter, austere runways on remote islands.
Under its post-WWII pacifist constitution, Japan has historically maintained a strictly defensive military posture. The deployment of carrier-capable stealth fighters represents a shift toward what defense analysts term “active deterrence.” To navigate political sensitivities regarding offensive capabilities, the Japanese government officially classifies the Izumo and Kaga as “multi-functional destroyers” rather than aircraft carriers.
Despite the strategic momentum, the domestic rollout of the F-35B fleet has faced logistical and political hurdles.
According to defense research data, Japan is constructing a dedicated runway and training facility on the uninhabited island of Mageshima, located roughly 160 kilometers south of Nyutabaru. This facility is intended for F-35B Field Carrier Landing Practice (FCLP) and vertical landing drills.
However, the Mageshima project has been delayed until approximately 2029 or 2030. Consequently, routine vertical landing training must be conducted at Nyutabaru Airports in the interim. This temporary arrangement has triggered protests and concerns from local residents in Miyazaki Prefecture regarding severe aircraft noise pollution.
We view the successful delivery of these F-35Bs as more than just a national defense upgrade for Japan; it is a foundational step for allied interoperability in the Indo-Pacific. By operating the F-35B from modified destroyers, Japan ensures seamless integration with U.S. Navy and Marine Corps forces, as well as other allied operators like the United Kingdom and Italy. This opens the door for future cross-decking operations, where allied jets can land on Japanese ships and vice versa, creating a highly flexible, distributed maritime strike capability that complicates adversary planning in the region.
According to defense procurement data, Japan plans to acquire a total of 147 F-35 military-aircraft, consisting of 105 F-35A conventional takeoff variants and 42 F-35B STOVL variants.
The F-35B features Short Take-Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) capabilities, allowing it to operate from amphibious assault ships, light aircraft carriers, and short or austere runways. To align with its post-WWII pacifist constitution, which limits offensive military capabilities, Japan officially classifies the modified Izumo-class vessels as “multi-functional destroyers” rather than aircraft carriers.
Sources: @thef35, Defense Research Report
Japan Expands F-35B Fleet with Latest Delivery to Nyutabaru Air Base
Strategic Shift: The “Lightning Carriers”
Vessel Modifications and Sea Trials
Geopolitical Drivers and Regional Defense
Defending the Nansei Islands
Domestic Challenges and Infrastructure
Local Impact at Nyutabaru
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many F-35s is Japan buying?
What makes the F-35B different?
Why are Japan’s carrier-capable ships called destroyers?
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
Defense & Military
GKN Aerospace Delivers First Upgraded RM12 Engine to Swedish Armed Forces
GKN Aerospace delivers the first upgraded RM12 engine under a £32 million programme enhancing Sweden’s Gripen C/D fighter fleet performance and endurance.
This article is based on an official press release from GKN Aerospace.
GKN Aerospace has officially delivered the first upgraded RM12 engine to the Swedish Armed Forces, marking a critical milestone in the RM12 Enhanced Performance (RM12EP) programme. The delivery is part of a broader initiative to modernize the propulsion systems of Sweden’s JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter fleet.
According to a company press release, the RM12EP programme is valued at approximately £32 million (SEK 400 million). The initiative focuses on increasing engine thrust, extending operational endurance, and improving overall efficiency to ensure the legacy fighter aircraft remain highly capable in modern operational environments.
The successful handover of the first enhanced engine underscores GKN Aerospace’s nearly century-long partnership with the Swedish Air Force. As the type certificate holder for the RM12 engine, the company continues to play a central role in maintaining Sweden’s aerial defense readiness.
The RM12EP upgrade introduces significant technical improvements to the existing powerplants. In its official statement, GKN Aerospace noted that the enhancements include the installation of improved turbine hardware alongside updated engine control software. These modifications are specifically designed to boost engine thrust and extend the operating time of the engines, while simultaneously reducing life cycle costs for the Swedish Armed Forces.
The RM12EP programme was originally launched in 2019. It represents a long-term strategic effort led by GKN Aerospace to ensure that the Gripen C/D remains a cost-efficient and highly capable platform, even as newer generations of fighter aircraft enter service.
All upgrade work for the RM12 engines is being conducted at GKN Aerospace’s specialized facility in Trollhättan, Sweden. The company maintains comprehensive responsibility for the development, manufacturing, system support, and maintenance of both the RM12 engine, which powers the Gripen C/D, and the newer RM16 engine, which is utilized in the advanced Gripen E/F models.
The delivery of the first upgraded unit was achieved through extensive cross-functional collaboration. GKN Aerospace highlighted that the milestone involved coordination across engineering, production, quality assurance, procurement, and logistics departments. Furthermore, the project relies on key partnerships with industry leaders GE and Saab. Additional upgraded engines are scheduled to be delivered continuously to the Swedish Armed Forces in accordance with the programme’s planned timeline. “This first upgraded engine delivery represents an important step forward in enhancing the performance and endurance of the Gripen system. As type certificate holder for the Gripen C/D engine and with a partnership with the Swedish Air Force that spans nearly a century, we are proud to continue supporting Sweden’s operational capability and future readiness.”
We note that the delivery of the first upgraded RM12 engine highlights a broader trend in global defense procurement: the necessity of extending the operational lifespan of proven legacy platforms. While the Swedish Air Force is actively transitioning to the next-generation Gripen E/F, maintaining a robust and capable fleet of Gripen C/D aircraft remains essential for national security and regional stability.
By investing £32 million into the RM12EP programme, Sweden is ensuring a cost-effective bridge between aircraft generations. The enhancements to thrust and endurance not only improve the tactical capabilities of the Gripen C/D but also optimize maintenance schedules and reduce long-term operational costs. This dual-track approach, upgrading existing assets while procuring new ones, allows the Swedish Armed Forces to maintain a high state of readiness without compromising on technological advancement.
Furthermore, keeping the upgrade work localized at the Trollhättan facility secures domestic aerospace expertise and supply chain resilience. As geopolitical tensions in Europe remain a focal point for defense ministries, the ability to independently maintain and upgrade critical defense infrastructure is a significant strategic advantage for Sweden.
The RM12 Enhanced Performance (RM12EP) programme is an upgrade initiative led by GKN Aerospace for the Swedish Armed Forces. Launched in 2019, it aims to improve the thrust, endurance, and efficiency of the RM12 engines powering the JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter aircraft.
According to GKN Aerospace, the programme is valued at approximately £32 million, which equates to SEK 400 million.
All development, manufacturing, and maintenance work for the RM12 engine upgrades is carried out at GKN Aerospace’s facility in Trollhättan, Sweden.
The RM12EP programme involves strong collaboration between GKN Aerospace and key industry partners, including GE and Saab.
The RM12EP Upgrade Programme
Technical Enhancements
Production and Partnerships
Strategic Implications for the Swedish Air Force
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RM12EP programme?
How much is the RM12EP programme worth?
Where is the upgrade work being performed?
Who are the key partners in this programme?
Sources
Photo Credit: GKN Aerospace
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