Helis, July 09, 2023 - On July 5, the German parliamentary Budget Committee (Haushaltsausschuss) has given its approval for the acquisition of 60 Boeing Chinook helicopters at a cost of €8 billion.
This decision comes after an initial budget of €6 billion had been allocated for the program.
The approved sum includes funding for the procurement of new-build heavy-lift helicopters, maintenance services, national contracts, and infrastructure development.
The German Bundeswehr aims to replace its aging CH-53G fleet, which has been in service since the early 1970s. The chosen helicopter, the Boeing Chinook, was selected through the Heavy Lift Helicopter Competition (STH), in which Boeing, in collaboration with Airbus and several local partners, emerged as the winner over the Sikorsky CH-53K.
In May, the United States State Department approved the Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of the Chinook helicopters to Germany.
The German variant of the Chinook will be based on the advanced Block-2 model, featuring custom modifications such as extended range capabilities and aerial refueling capability.
This significant investment reflects Germany's commitment to modernizing its military helicopter fleet and enhancing its heavy-lift capabilities to meet the evolving operational requirements.
The selection of the Chinook as Germany's new heavy-lift helicopter was not only based on its exceptional capabilities but also influenced by the existing collaborations with other nations. The Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Spain and Turkey already operate the Chinook helicopters, which allows for enhanced interoperability and cooperation among these NATO allied forces.
This alignment of helicopter platforms ensures seamless joint operations, common training, and shared maintenance practices, strengthening the collective defense capabilities of these countries.
Furthermore, the Chinook's selection will facilitate closer cooperation with the US Army, which has a long-standing history with these helicopters in Germany. This mutual familiarity with the Chinook platform will foster effective coordination, information sharing, and joint exercises between the German Armed Forces and their American counterparts.
By aligning with these nations and their use of the Chinook, Germany can benefit from shared expertise, joint training opportunities, and optimized logistical support. The cooperation among these allied countries will not only enhance their individual capabilities but also contribute to the overall security and stability of the region.
This decision comes after an initial budget of €6 billion had been allocated for the program.
The approved sum includes funding for the procurement of new-build heavy-lift helicopters, maintenance services, national contracts, and infrastructure development.
The German Bundeswehr aims to replace its aging CH-53G fleet, which has been in service since the early 1970s. The chosen helicopter, the Boeing Chinook, was selected through the Heavy Lift Helicopter Competition (STH), in which Boeing, in collaboration with Airbus and several local partners, emerged as the winner over the Sikorsky CH-53K.
In May, the United States State Department approved the Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of the Chinook helicopters to Germany.
The German variant of the Chinook will be based on the advanced Block-2 model, featuring custom modifications such as extended range capabilities and aerial refueling capability.
This significant investment reflects Germany's commitment to modernizing its military helicopter fleet and enhancing its heavy-lift capabilities to meet the evolving operational requirements.
The selection of the Chinook as Germany's new heavy-lift helicopter was not only based on its exceptional capabilities but also influenced by the existing collaborations with other nations. The Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, Spain and Turkey already operate the Chinook helicopters, which allows for enhanced interoperability and cooperation among these NATO allied forces.
This alignment of helicopter platforms ensures seamless joint operations, common training, and shared maintenance practices, strengthening the collective defense capabilities of these countries.
Furthermore, the Chinook's selection will facilitate closer cooperation with the US Army, which has a long-standing history with these helicopters in Germany. This mutual familiarity with the Chinook platform will foster effective coordination, information sharing, and joint exercises between the German Armed Forces and their American counterparts.
By aligning with these nations and their use of the Chinook, Germany can benefit from shared expertise, joint training opportunities, and optimized logistical support. The cooperation among these allied countries will not only enhance their individual capabilities but also contribute to the overall security and stability of the region.
See also |
German CH-47 Chinook in
Luftwaffe 
