The first CH-47F (NL) Chinook heavy-lift multi-role helicopter procured by the Netherlands Ministry of Defence made its first official flight in January 25.

The aircraft made its first flight on December 8 and is scheduled to complete its flight test program in August after approximately 100 flight hours. There are currently two aircraft in flight test.

The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) will receive a total of six helicopters to enhance its current fleet of 11 CH-47D (NL) Chinook helicopters.

The new Chinooks are equipped with survivability equipment, a forward-looking infrared system, and fast rope positions, which will be used to support Special Forces operations. The engines will include air particle separators for operation in harsh environments.