Boeing to Supply Additional MH-47G Block II Chinook Helicopters to U.S. Special Operations Forces

Boeing has secured a $240 million contract from the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command (USASOAC) to remanufacture five MH-47G Block II Chinook helicopters, with deliveries slated to commence in 2027. This agreement elevates the total number of MH-47G Block II helicopters under contract to 51, underscoring ongoing efforts to modernize the U.S. Army's special operations aviation fleet.​

The MH-47G Block II Chinook is a heavy-lift helicopter engineered for complex and high-risk missions worldwide. It boasts a reinforced airframe, redesigned fuel system, advanced avionics, and a modular design that facilitates cost-effective future upgrades. These enhancements ensure the aircraft remains adaptable to evolving mission requirements.​

Heather McBryan, Vice President and Program Manager for Boeing Cargo Programs, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Supporting the needs of our special operators continues to be critically important. USASOAC has unique and complex mission requirements, so it’s vital we provide the enhanced capabilities of the MH-47G Block II as quickly as possible."​

This contract follows a $115 million agreement in June 2024 for two additional MH-47G Block II helicopters, bringing the total to 46 at that time. The cumulative investment in these helicopters highlights the strategic importance of the Chinook platform in special operations.​

The MH-47G Block II's advanced features, including inflight refueling capability, comprehensive defensive systems, and low-level/adverse weather piloting aids such as forward-looking infrared and multi-mode terrain-following radar, make it a versatile asset. Armed with two 7.62mm M134 Miniguns and two M240 7.62mm machine guns, it is well-equipped for a variety of operational scenarios.​

As Boeing continues to deliver these enhanced helicopters, the U.S. Army Special Operations Aviation Command moves closer to achieving a fully modernized fleet capable of meeting the demands of contemporary and future special operations missions.