Germany’s Helicopter Fleet Overhaul: U.S. Clears Boeing CH-47F Chinooks Replacement for Aging CH-53Gs

The U.S. State Department has greenlit a potential sale of 60 CH-47F Chinook heavy-duty helicopters to Germany. The acquisition would serve to replace Germany’s current fleet of Sikorsky CH-53G Sea Stallion helicopters showing signs of wear.

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The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) outlined the potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Germany:

• 60 CH-47F Block II cargo helicopters equipped with customer-specific modifications
• 140 T-55-GA-714A engines (120 installed, 20 in reserve)
• 72 AN/AAR-57 missile approach warning systems (60 installed, 12 in reserve)
• 284 AN/ARC-231A secure communications radios (240 installed, 44 in reserve)

The package also encompasses laser and radar illumination detection and military satellite navigation equipment, high and very high frequency radios, and night vision capabilities, among others.

Details are unclear regarding whether the future German CH-47F Block IIs will be outfitted for combat search and rescue (CSAR) missions or special forces infiltration. However, the potential sale may include in-flight refueling probes, infrared suppression systems for engines, added ballistic protection, and other mission equipment.

The deal features an all-inclusive approach for Germany’s new Chinooks, transforming them into more than just heavy transport and cargo helicopters. With the inclusion of training, documentation, spare parts, and logistical support elements, the package proposed by the U.S. is estimated at around $8.5 billion.

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In the heavy transport helicopter (STH) program, the CH-47F Chinook went up against Sikorsky/Lockheed Martin’s CH-53K King Stallion. In April 2022, the German government declared the victory of Boeing’s helicopter in the STH competition. Operational and logistical compatibility with other NATO member nations that use the CH-47, coupled with a lower unit price, seem to have tipped the balance in its favor.