Boeing Celebrates Milestone with the 20th CH-47F Chinook Handed Over to the Royal Netherlands Air Force
Boeing has successfully handed over the 20th CH-47F Chinook to the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF), marking the completion of the nation’s latest fleet enhancement.
“Our ongoing collaboration with the Royal Netherlands Air Force showcases the benefits of a modern and adaptable Chinook fleet,” stated Ken Eland, vice president and H-47 program director. “These cutting-edge aircraft will greatly enhance their defense and humanitarian support capabilities.”
The Netherlands stands among eight NATO nations operating the Chinook and has deployed the aircraft consistently since acquiring its initial CH-47D models in 1995. In 2016, the RNLAF secured 14 new CH-47F Chinooks via the U.S. Department of Defense’s Foreign Military Sales initiative. In 2017, the RNLAF formalized an agreement to upgrade its remaining six D-model Chinook helicopters to the contemporary F-model configuration, ensuring system uniformity across their entire 20-aircraft fleet.
“This represents a significant achievement for us. We possess newer communication systems and advanced equipment that assist our pilots in performing better in diverse environments,” commented LTC Wil van Rijn, senior system integrator for the Chinook at the Dutch Ministry of Defence.
The CH-47F Chinook is a sophisticated multi-role helicopter equipped with a fully integrated, digital cockpit management system compatible with the Common Avionics Architecture System. Its superior cargo-handling capabilities further enhance the aircraft’s operational effectiveness and handling traits.
