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.

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Lisa has a degree in Media & Communication from Glasgow Caledonian University and works with industry news, sifting through press releases in addition to moderating website comments.
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HamishUK
HamishUK (@guest_852961)
15 days ago

The Chinook is a solid piece of kit. Flown about in enough of them to say it’s fantastic.

simon alex
simon alex (@guest_853026)
15 days ago
Reply to  HamishUK

Unmistakable sound for us looking up

Andrew D
Andrew D (@guest_853036)
15 days ago

Interesting that Germany are going for Chinooks after relying on the CH Stallions over the year’s for heavy lift ,take it Chinook comes out on top ?

John Hartley
John Hartley (@guest_853512)
13 days ago
Reply to  Andrew D

On cost. CH53K is more capable, but costs a lot more.