CH-47 Cargo Helicopter Mods (MYP)

The CH-47 Cargo Helicopter Mods (MYP) program is a critical line item within the Army's Aircraft Procurement budget, specifically focused on the modernization and sustainment of the CH-47F Chinook fleet. The CH-47F is the Army's only heavy-lift helicopter and serves as a key enabler for Transformation in Contact (TiC) and Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) within an integrated joint force. The overarching goal of this program is to ensure the CH-47F remains operationally relevant, safe, and interoperable in the face of evolving threats, emerging technologies, and shifting mission requirements.

A primary objective of the Block I Software & Avionics Upgrades is to enhance the Common Avionics Architecture System (CAAS) and the Digital Automatic Flight Control System (DAFCS). This includes iterative software development, integration, and testing to improve cyber security, communication security (COMSEC), and aircraft handling qualities. The upgrades also address obsolescence by replacing critical, unavailable hardware and refreshing avionics software to counter new cyber threats and improve safety. These efforts are justified by the rapid evolution of commercial electronics and the need to maintain military and civil airspace interoperability.

The Block I Cargo Platform Health Environment (CPHE) and Improved Vibration Control System (IVCS) modifications are designed to increase aircraft reliability and reduce maintenance costs. CPHE provides advanced diagnostics and health monitoring for the cargo platform, while IVCS aims to minimize airframe vibration, thereby enhancing crew comfort and extending the lifespan of critical components. These upgrades are fielded across the fleet to maximize operational availability and mission readiness.

The Block I COOLS & COOLS Ballistic Protection System (BPS) and Light Weight COOLS BPS (LBPS) initiatives focus on improving survivability and crew protection. The COOLS system upgrades the cargo handling floor and integrates ballistic protection to shield occupants from threats encountered during combat and support missions. The lightweight variant (LBPS) is specifically intended to provide protection without significantly increasing aircraft weight, thereby preserving lift capacity and range.

Additional modifications under this line item include Degraded Visual Environment (DVE) systems to enhance flight safety in low-visibility conditions, Improved Troop Seats (ITS) for increased crashworthiness, and Block I Adjustable Pitch Change Link for better rotor system performance. Block I Engine Improvements focus on upgrading the T55 engine and its control systems, improving power output, reliability, and maintainability. These engine enhancements are managed in partnership with Honeywell Inc., the engine manufacturer.

Other objectives addressed by the program include Block I CH-47 Safety Mods, Aircraft Component Parts-Marking (UID) for improved logistics and traceability, and Systems Optimization & Payload Restoration to restore and optimize payload capacity lost to previous modifications or wear. Each of these efforts is supported by recurring and non-recurring engineering, logistics, and program management activities, with major contractors including Boeing (Ridley Park, PA) and Honeywell (Phoenix, AZ).

The budget request supports the procurement, integration, and fielding of these avionics and safety improvements across the CH-47F fleet. This funding is necessary to address urgent obsolescence issues, insert new technologies, and maintain the operational effectiveness of the Army's heavy-lift helicopter force. The program is aligned with statutory requirements for supporting both Active and Reserve Components in homeland defense, emergency response, and military support to civil authorities, and is managed in accordance with federal efficiency initiatives and executive orders.