Early variants included the CH-47A (354 built), CH-47B (108), and CH-47C (233), totaling nearly 700 before large-scale D-model remanufacturing began. Most US D-models were conversions from earlier versions rather than entirely new builds.
The Chinook’s ongoing relevance is also due to its ability to adapt to changing mission requirements across different countries. Japan produces its own versions through Kawasaki Heavy Industries; Italy’s Agusta (now Leonardo) has manufactured some since the 1970s; and the United Kingdom operates HC-series Chinooks tailored to British needs.
Boeing notes that more than 950 Chinooks remain active across over 20 countries worldwide—a significant figure compared with other military helicopters that typically serve fewer nations at once. The British Ministry of Defence describes the Chinook as central to its heavy-lift capability. In Canada, the CH-147F supports both Arctic operations and overseas missions. Germany ordered 60 CH-47F Block II helicopters in 2023 as part of its modernization efforts (https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/boeing-wins-german-chopper-deal-worth-up-to-89-bln-sources-say-2023-06-14/).
Key milestones in the program include Vertol beginning design work in 1957; first flight of a prototype in 1961; entry into US Army service in 1962; major upgrades starting with the D model in 1979; introduction of advanced F models with glass cockpits from 2007 onward; and continued commitments from allied nations well into this decade.
The competition for heavy-lift helicopters includes models like Russia’s Mi-6 and Mi-26—which saw limited global use—and America’s CH-53 series, which is more expensive and less widely adopted internationally. The V-22 Osprey tiltrotor was expected to revolutionize military aviation but has seen lower production numbers due to reliability issues.
Chinook specifications vary by operator but typically feature an overall length of about 30 meters with rotors turning, two Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines (with Block II upgrades underway), a maximum speed near 170 knots (196 mph), and substantial fuel capacity for extended range.
Not all Chinooks built since the early years remain operational due to combat losses or retirements—especially among Vietnam-era A and B models—but ongoing upgrade programs keep much of the fleet current. Some export customers are retiring older aircraft as they receive modernized replacements (https://www.govconwire.com/2022/05/boeing-secures-potential-791m-army-contract-for-chinook-helicopter-block-II-production/).
Despite these changes, nearly a thousand Chinooks continue flying today—a testament to their enduring design and utility. Production at Boeing’s Pennsylvania facility is set to continue at least into the next two decades as new orders come from Germany, South Korea, Egypt, and others. According to statements from US Army officials (https://www.army.mil/article/254748/chinook_block_ii_enters_full_rate_production_with_first_delivery_to_us_army_special_operations_command), service life will likely extend until at least the 2060s.
In summary, while precise figures are difficult due to remanufacturing practices and varying definitions of “new build,” it is estimated that around 1,350 Chinooks have been constructed worldwide through early 2024—with almost a thousand still active across multiple continents.
Alerts Sign-up
