Boeing offers CH-47 Chinook to Poland

Boeing announced the CH-47 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter as a potential solution for Poland’s airlift needs during the MSPO International Defence Industry Exhibition on 5 September 2024.

According to a press release from Boeing, the offer aims to boost the Polish Armed Forces’ airlift capabilities and improve their interoperability with allied nations.

Tim Flood, Senior Director of International Business Development for Europe and the Americas at Boeing, noted the Chinook’s long-standing role in European defence and humanitarian missions.

“The Chinook has been a key part of European defence and humanitarian relief missions for more than five decades and would enhance Poland’s cooperation with allied forces, and support the country’s defence needs,” said Flood.

Boeing also stated that the deal could provide economic benefits for Poland, including job creation and increased autonomy for its defence sector.

The CH-47F Block II, the latest version of the helicopter, is designed to offer improved performance, with increased lift, range, and operational flexibility. Boeing has highlighted that the Chinook’s compatibility with Poland’s recently acquired Apache helicopters would “enhance operational effectiveness”.

Adam Hodges, representing Boeing’s Vertical Lift Programs, said that “operating the Chinook in tandem with the newly acquired Apaches will serve as a force multiplier for the Polish Armed Forces due to their complementary capabilities.”

With over 950 Chinook helicopters in service across 20 countries, the aircraft has a long history of use in both military and humanitarian operations. If selected, Poland would join nine other NATO members, including Germany, that have opted for the Chinook as their primary heavy-lift helicopter.