Joint Media Release - Minister for Defence & Member for Herbert - Media Release - New cargo helicopters for Army based in Townsville

We are pleased to announce the commissioning into service of the first two CH-47F Chinook ‘Foxtrot’ helicopters.

This Project, which represents an investment of $631 million in Australia’s safety and security, will deliver seven Chinook Foxtrots and two flight simulators, with all major equipment deliveries scheduled for completion by August 2015.

These helicopters, which will be operated by Army’s 5^th Aviation Regiment from the RAAF Base at Townsville, will provide a modern and improved cargo helicopter capability for the Army.

In addition to this investment, following Parliamentary approval last year, $49.8 million will be invested to support the introduction and sustainment of the new Chinook. Construction at RAAF Base Townsville is scheduled for completion in mid 2017. This project will provide strong economic benefit to the local community, with opportunities for up to 800 construction industry personnel.

Both simulators ordered under this project have already been delivered and are now being used for Army’s Chinook crews to safely undertake a wide range of training scenarios in support of the capability.

The outgoing Delta-model Chinooks have proven themselves as the Army’s operational ‘workhorse’ and the new Foxtrots will further enhance this capability for the Australian Defence Force.

The aircraft and associated equipment are being purchased through the United States Foreign Military Sales program; maintenance support will be provided locally through partnerships with Boeing Defence Australia and BAE Systems.

The project remains on schedule and under budget.

Media note:

Defence imagery is available through the Image Gallery at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20151249 

Media contacts:

Chloe Petch (Minister Andrews’ Office): 0477 395 356

Defence Media Operations: 02 6127 1999