Article Posted on : - Oct 07, 2014

ICH-47F Helicopter. Photo: Finmeccanica – AgustaWestland

ROME (BNS): The Italian Army has taken delivery of the first two ICH-47F Chinook helicopters providing a significant contribution to the modernisation of its helicopter fleet.

The overall Italian Army’s ICH-47F programme is based on an order for 16 units. The contract also includes a five year logistic support service, Finmeccanica – AgustaWestland said.

Deliveries of all aircraft will be completed in 2017. The ICH-47Fs will be operated by the Italian Army Aviation 1st Regiment "Antares" based in Viterbo and they will replace the CH-47C Chinooks that have been in service since 1973.

The ICH-47F customised version incorporates a secure communications system, self-protection system and advanced datalink system. This new ICH-47F Chinook variant has a Maximum All Up Weight (MAUW) of 23 tons, is equipped with two Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines giving it excellent “hot and high” capability and is suitable for all weather operations.

The primary tactical mission of the ICH-47F aircraft is to provide air transportation for equipment and troops. Cargo can be carried internally and externally using the aircraft's cargo hook system.

The helicopter's payload, long range and high cruise speed make it a unique asset to meet the Italian Army's needs and can additionally perform special support functions, disaster relief and firefighting roles.

Under to a Joint Industrial Agreement with the Boeing Company, AgustaWestland is prime contractor for the Italian ICH-47F programme, with responsibility for systems integration, final assembly and aircraft delivery to the Italian Army.