Rotorcraft
Germany Chooses Chinook for Heavylifter Requirement
After many years of deliberation, Germany has selected the CH-47 over the CH-53K, citing greater interoperability with NATO allies.
A company graphic depicts a CH-47F Block II in notional Luftwaffe colors. The German Chinooks will be equipped with a probe for refueling from KC-130J and A400M tankers. (Photo: Boeing)
A company graphic depicts a CH-47F Block II in notional Luftwaffe colors. The German Chinooks will be equipped with a probe for refueling from KC-130J and A400M tankers. (Photo: Boeing)

The German government this week selected the Boeing CH-47F Block II Chinook over the Lockheed Martin/Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion to meet the country’s Schwerer Transporthubschrauber (STH, heavy transport helicopter) requirement. On June 1, defense minister Christine Lambrecht announced that 60 inflight-refuelable Chinooks will be bought to replace the 80 or so Sikorsky CH-53G heavylifters currently in use with the Luftwaffe (air force), with deliveries to begin in 2024/25.