Boeing, the world’s largest aerospace company, has delivered the first five of 12 CH-47F Chinook helicopters to the Egyptian Air Force, marking a major upgrade to the heavy-lift aviation capabilities of Africa’s most powerful military as Egypt continues to modernise its defence equipment.
The delivery was announced during the El Alamein International Airshow held from September 8 to 10, 2026, where Boeing showcased the latest addition to Egypt’s helicopter fleet.
The aircraft are part of a $426 million foreign military sale agreement signed in January 2023 through the US Army, reinforcing Egypt’s military aviation capabilities as Africa’s most powerful military, according to Global Firepower.
Under the agreement, the new Chinooks will replace Egypt’s ageing CH-47D fleet, which includes aircraft acquired from earlier Chinook purchases and upgrades dating back to the 1980s and late 1990s.
The new helicopters will introduce upgraded digital systems, improved maintenance features and enhanced operational capabilities.
