Boeing delivered the first five of 12 CH-47F Block I Chinook heavy-lift helicopters to the Egyptian Air Force recently, marking a major step in the modernization of Egypt’s Chinook fleet. The handover ceremony took place Sept. 8 at Egypt’s El Alamein Airshow.
Why it matters: The helicopters will help Egypt move troops and equipment as well as support humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and firefighting missions.
Driving the news: The five helicopters are part of a $426 million foreign military sale for 12 CH-47F Block I Chinooks.
- The helicopters will replace and modernize Egypt’s existing CH-47D fleet.
- The CH-47F Block I provides greater payload and range than previous Chinook models operated by the Egyptian Air Force.
- The ceremony was attended by senior Egyptian and U.S. government officials as well as Boeing leaders.
What they’re saying: “The Chinook flies where it’s needed most — into disaster zones, across deserts, to assist people at their most vulnerable,” said Kathleen (KJ) Jolivette, vice president and general manager, Boeing Vertical Lift Programs. “For almost five decades Boeing has stood with the Egyptian Air Force. We are not just delivering helicopters; we are committed to keeping this fleet flying, and Egypt’s aircrews safe for years to come.”
Catch up quick: Boeing’s partnership with Egypt began nearly six decades ago with EGYPTAIR’s first Boeing order in 1966.
- Egypt initially acquired 15 CH-47C Chinooks in 1981.
- The country transitioned its fleet to the CH-47D by 2002.
- Boeing also provides in-country field service and engineering support for Egypt’s Apache helicopter fleet.
The big picture: Boeing has invested more than $3 million in community programs in Egypt over the past decade. Those programs have reached 9,800 participants during the past five years through work focused on science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, employability and entrepreneurship.
By Clay Ham