Netherlands seeks billion-dollar helicopter deal

WASHINGTON, March 24 (UPI) -- The Netherlands is seeking acquisition of CH-47 Chinook helicopters through a U.S. Foreign Military Sales program deal worth $1.05 billion.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, which overseas FMS packages, said notified Congress that the proposed sale has been approved by the U.S. State Department and "is vital to U.S. national interests" as it would help the Netherlands to develop and maintain a strong self-defense capability.

"The Netherlands is one of the major political and economic powers in Europe and NATO and an ally of the United States in the pursuit of peace and stability," the agency said. "The Netherlands will use the enhanced capability to strengthen its homeland defense, deter regional threats, and provide direct support to coalition and security cooperation efforts.

"The CH-47F aircraft will supplement and eventually replace the Royal Netherlands Air Force's aging fleet of CH-47 helicopters. The Netherlands will have no difficulty absorbing this aircraft into its armed forces."

The possible sale is for 17 CH-47F cargo helicopters with customer unique post-modifications. Included would be 46 T55-GA-714A turbine engines with hydro-mechanical assembly, 41 embedded Global Positioning System/Inertial Navigation ystems, 54 AN/ARC-231 ultra-high frequency/very high frequency radios, 21 AN/ARC-220 high-frequency radios, 21 AN/APX-123A identification friend or foe transponders, spare and repair parts, support equipment, tools and test equipment, aircraft ferry and refueling support, personnel training and training equipment.

The principal contractor would be be Boeing Helicopter.