Boeing delivers first MH-47G Chinook Block II helicopter

On 1 September 2020, during a ceremony at the Boeing Ridley Park, Philadelphia (PA) facility, Boeing delivered the first MH-47G Chinook Block II to the US Army.

The US Army is stalling its decision to replace its current fleet of CH-47F helicopters with the improved CH-47F Chinook Block II, but the US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) did decide to replace its fleet of MH-47G Chinooks with the Block II versions.

Actual orders for 24 examples are already placed with Boeing, with additional orders expected in the future. In total 73 MH-47Gs have been delivered to the SOCOM, of which four have been lost in accidents. All helicopters are used by the famous Nightstalkers (160th SOAR) at Campbell AAF, Fort Campbell (KY), Hunter AAF, Fort Stewart (GA) and Gray AAF, Fort Lewis (WA).

The brandnew Chinook has tail number 02909 painted on the rear pylon. The fiscal year is not known yet, but based on when the first order was placed, this is most likely 2018. This serial nicely follows the last eight “regular” MH-47Gs which were ordered in 2012 (one) and 2013 (seven) and carry serials 02901 until 02908.

Photos: @BoeingDefense