Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Chinook Contract Update

14 March 2024 · Ministry of Defence

Proposed by Grant Shapps Con Welwyn Hatfield

Defence

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • Chinook Capability Sustainment Programme will deliver 14 Extended Range Chinooks starting in 2027.
  • Grant Shapps wrote to US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about the UK's decision.
  • Officials are reviewing the balance between heavy and medium lift helicopter fleets.

Issue summary

Grant Shapps announces the UK's decision to proceed with the first tranche of the Chinook Capability Sustainment Programme, which will deliver 14 Extended Range Chinooks from 2027.

Action requested

The minister has written to US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin informing him of the final decision and instructed officials to review the balance between heavy and medium lift helicopter fleets. The programme offers cost savings and interoperability with allies, including AUKUS.

Key facts

  • The Extended Range Chinook Helicopter programme will deliver 14 helicopters starting from 2027.
  • The UK is the only nation outside of the US to be provided access to this class-leading heavy lift helicopter capability.
  • Costs associated with the programme have been reduced by over £300M through collaborative efforts with the United States.
  • The programme offers estimated UK prosperity benefits of an additional £151M up to 2031 compared to the current fleet.
  • Eight percent of H-47(ER) aircraft production and in-service support is provided by UK industry, supporting key skills and companies such as Leonardo Electronics UK and BAES Rochester.
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