Deliveries of the CH-47F Block II helicopters to Germany are scheduled to begin in 2027 and continue into the early to mid-2030s. Under prior arrangements, technical personnel training will be conducted by Aero-Bildung GmbH, while airframe maintenance will be handled by Lufthansa Technik and engine maintenance for Honeywell T55 engines by Rolls-Royce Germany.
Germany’s acquisition of the CH-47F highlights a broader shift toward readiness, resilience and interoperability with NATO partners. Countries such as the Netherlands, the United States and the United Kingdom already operate the Chinook, supporting Germany’s role in collective defense.
The introduction of the new helicopters will also lead to structural changes within the German Air Force. The headquarters of Helicopter Wing 64 will be relocated from Laupheim to Holzdorf Air Base by October 1, 2026, where one squadron of 12 helicopters will be stationed.
The main component of the wing, consisting of three squadrons with a total of 47 CH-47F Block II helicopters, will also be based at Holzdorf. This will establish the base as the central hub for Germany’s transport helicopter operations.
In addition, one Chinook helicopter will be assigned to the Bundeswehr’s technical center for aircraft and aeronautical equipment, WTD61, located in Manching. The aircraft will be used for testing, evaluation and certification activities.
