Wed, Feb 05, 2003
Airframes, Literally, To Get A "Tune-Up"
Boeing
and the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command have signed the
first Low Rate Initial Production contract valued at about $140
million including options for remanufacturing seven CH-47 Chinooks
to the new CH-47F and MH-47G Special Operations configurations.
The contract covers the first production lot of a modernization
program that will include at least 300 Chinooks over the next 13
years. Boeing Integrated Defense Systems will manage the program at
the Rotorcraft Enterprise Capability Center in suburban
Philadelphia. Work on the first aircraft begins this month, with
the first CH-47F delivery scheduled for Sept. 2004. The remaining
six aircraft in the first lot will be converted to MH-47G Special
Operations Chinooks and delivered in 2004 and 2005.
Modernization involves teardown of CH-47D Chinooks, removal of
existing cockpit sections for replacement by newly manufactured
subassemblies, full inspection of all structural elements and
replacement of components as required, and installation of new or
recapitalized components and systems that will enhance Chinook
operational capabilities and reduce sustainment costs.
Both
CH-47F and MH-47G Chinooks will incorporate "tuned" fuselages to
reduce the effects of vibration on aircrews, structures and avionic
systems. Both aircraft also will incorporate advanced cockpit
management systems. The CH-47F cockpit contains a digital mission
management suite with a moving map display and digital modem. The
MH-47G will utilize the U.S. Army's advanced Common Avionics
Architecture applicable to all Special Operations rotorcraft. In
addition, the modernization includes installation of more powerful
and fuel-efficient Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines with Full
Authority Digital Engine Control.
Chinooks are the world's most efficient and reliable heavy
transport helicopters. They have been the U.S. Army's prime
movers for forty years, and will remain in the Army's inventory at
least until 2035. In addition, 15 international customers operate
Chinooks in military and humanitarian service on six continents, in
every climate and condition.
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