UK extends Boeing's Chinook support contract
The UK Ministry of Defence has signed a five-year contract extension with Boeing for the in-service support of the Royal Air Force's (RAF) Chinook helicopters, it was announced on 17 February.
The around £420 million contract extension will see Boeing continue to support the UK's military heavy lift helicopter.
The RAF Chinook fleet is expected to have 60 helicopters by early 2017, including the new Chinook Mark 6. The Chinook can transport up to 54 troops or 10 tonnes of supplies.
David Cameron, Prime Minister of the UK, said: 'The Chinook support contract represents significant value for money for what is a versatile support helicopter, protecting UK interests at home and abroad.'
David Pitchforth, managing director, Boeing Defence UK, said: 'The company has delivered aircraft availability that’s 10% above the requirement, and has driven serviceability to an all-time high.'
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