AgustaWestland,
a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce that the first ICH-47F
Chinook for the Italian Army successfully accomplished its maiden flight
on June 24th at Vergiate in Italy. The aircraft took to the air for 15
minutes, performing as expected whilst carrying out basic handling tests
and main systems checks.
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ICH-47F Chinook is the first of an order for 16 units plus four options
placed by the Italian MoD Procurement Agency (ARMAEREO). The contract
also includes a five year logistic support service. The delivery of the
first aircraft is planned in early 2014 with final deliveries in 2017.
The ICH-47Fs will be operated by the Italian Army Aviation 1st Regiment
"Antares" based in Viterbo and they will replace the 40 CH-47C
Chinooks that have been in service since 1973.
Under 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. In addition AgustaWestland is also being qualified by Boeing to
produce the entire drive systems. Boeing builds the fuselage in its rotorcraft
facility in Ridley Park, Pa. Final assembly is carried out at AgustaWestland's
Vergiate plant in Northern Italy.
Alessandro Parrini, Senior Vice President Italian Government Business
Unit, AgustaWestland said: “This is an exciting moment for us and
our customer. The Italian Army will soon fly the latest variant of the
proven heavy lift platform that will give it new capabilities. This maiden
flight confirms that the strategic partnership between the Company and
the Service is providing a significant contribution to the modernisation
of the Italian Army helicopter fleet.”
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. The Joint Industrial
Agreement between AgustaWestland and Boeing also includes a licensing
arrangement that enables AgustaWestland to market, sell and produce these
“Chinooks” for other countries.
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