Collins Aerospace has secured a US$19 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense to equip the UK Royal Air Force’s new H-47 Chinook helicopters with its common avionics architecture system (CAAS). This avionics management suite will align the UK’s Chinook fleet with the U.S. Chinooks, featuring advanced digital cockpit displays and applications to enhance interoperability.
Dave Schreck, Vice President and General Manager of Military Avionics and Helicopters at Collins Aerospace, commented on the contract: “Interoperability with our allies will be crucial in the future fight, particularly when it comes to maintaining air dominance. Having the same battle-proven, modernised flight deck technology on both UK and U.S. aircraft will enable our forces to collaborate more seamlessly, lower their workload and increase operational effectiveness and safety in challenging environments.”
The CAAS system, powered by its Flight2™ Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) architecture, integrates communications, navigation, and mission sensor subsystems. Its flexible hardware and software design allows for cost-effective upgrades and enhancements, reducing sustainment costs throughout the fleet’s lifecycle.
Collins Aerospace will also provide data analysis and testing services, collaborating with the UK Ministry of Defence to ensure compliance with the UK Military Airworthiness Authority’s requirements.
This contract supports the UK government’s recent investment in heavy lift capability, which includes the purchase of 14 extended-range Chinooks. The programme is projected to inject approximately £151(US$192 million) million into the UK economy.
The work will be conducted at Collins Aerospace facilities in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Huntsville, Alabama.
