Washington: In what is being said to safely and effectively accomplish critical future missions, there is need  for soldiers to have next-generation heavy-lift capabilities and Boeing says that its H-47 Chinook Block II is the only way to rapidly and affordably achieve that goal.

The H-47 Chinook Block II is powered by cutting-edge technologies – redesigned fuel tanks, a strengthened fuselage, and an improved drivetrain – all of which enable soldiers to meet tomorrow’s heavy-lift mission requirements and positions the Chinook for additional future upgrades.

Flying faster, farther and smarter, Block II improves readiness for the US Army and Special Operations war fighters, limits future sustainment costs and provides commonality across the fleet to ensure that the Chinook fleet will be available to serve for decades to come.

The H-47 Chinook program supports more than 20,000 jobs and 360 suppliers in 40 states, and is relied on by the US Army and 19 other countries around the globe. Chinook Block II production will leverage and strengthen  manufacturing base which will guarantee timely support to both the production line and  soldiers in the field.

It will ultimately enable troops to get to where they’re needed, when they’re needed, and get them out of danger when their job is done. With more than 950 Chinooks in 20 countries, the program continues to deliver unrivalled production, maintenance and sustainment cost efficiencies.