Fox promises 14 new Chinooks for RAF

The RAF will receive 14 new Chinook helicopters in a £1 billion contract, Defence Secretary Liam Fox has announced.

The deal with Boeing will bring the total force of the heavy-lift choppers to 60 – the biggest capability in Europe.

The aircraft are vital to Nato operations in Afghanistan, offering support to both British and other nations’ forces. The contract includes development, building and five years’ support.

Dr Fox announced the deal yesterday on a visit to RAF Odiham, in Hampshire, where the Chinook force is based.

“This government is committed to delivering a top-class equipment programme that is properly funded,” he said.

The defence secretary added that the government had brought “reality” to the defence budget, which can now deliver real equipment.