Boeing, Kawasaki Heavy Industries and the Japan Ministry of Defense recently commemorated 40 years of strong partnership on the CH-47 Chinook helicopter program.
Why it matters: The partnership has helped build and sustain Japan’s Chinook fleet, strengthen local manufacturing, and support critical missions.
Driving the news: Industry partners and the Japan Ministry of Defense recently gathered at the Boeing Philadelphia site in Pennsylvania for a joint ceremony to recognize the long-standing partnership.
What they’re saying:
- “Over the past 40 years, the Chinook has become the true backbone of strategic joint airlift capabilities for the Japanese ground and air forces.” said Maj. Gen. Kawachi, defense attaché for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. “This 40-year legacy is a testament to the thousands of hands that have touched this aircraft.”
- “For more than 40 years, the Japan Chinook program has been supported through the strong partnership among Boeing, KHI and the Government of Japan. We greatly appreciate the support of all stakeholders and look forward to continuing this collaboration to support the future of the program,” said Masahiro Fujita, director, Helicopter Business Management Group, CH-47 Program Manager, Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd.
- “Our enduring relationship is built on trust, transparency and a commitment to delivering the most capable, reliable and safe Chinook aircraft for the Japan Self-Defense Forces,” said Heather McBryan, vice president and program manager, Boeing Cargo Programs.
Catch up quick: Boeing and Japan have developed a trusted partnership built around the CH-47 Chinook helicopter.
- In the mid-1980s, Boeing partnered with Kawasaki Heavy Industries to fulfill Japan’s heavy-lift and transport needs by establishing domestic licensed manufacturing.
- Since then, the companies have co-produced more than 100 CH-47J/JA aircraft while supporting local industry and vital missions throughout the Pacific region.
The big picture: Japan is the largest Chinook operator outside the U.S. and uses the helicopter for national defense, heavy transport, resupply, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief including earthquake, typhoon and tsunami recovery missions.
