RAF flying high in new Chinook helicopters
16 Jun 2014 03:57 PM
The first of 14 new RAF Chinook helicopters has
been unveiled today by the Defence Secretary following their entry into service
on time.
During a visit to RAF Odiham in Hampshire, the
home of the Chinook Force, Philip Hammond also announced a new £115
million agreement with Boeing
Defence UK to maintain the engines of the RAF’s increased
fleet of 60 Chinooks; a move that will replace 5 existing support contracts
with one arrangement, saving the taxpayer over £20
million.
The
first of 14 Chinook Mark 6 helicopters, which were ordered in 2011 as part of a
£1 billion programme, have now achieved their entry into service on time,
and 3 of the new aircraft have been delivered to the RAF, who have
commenced training in the UK.
The
Defence Secretary and the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir
Andrew Pulford, who himself is a Chinook pilot,
were given a tour of one of the brand new aircraft and shown the upgraded
capabilities that the helicopters provide to pilots and crew.
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