On August 19, 2024, the U.S. State Department approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Netherlands worth approximately $305 million. This sale focuses on the training of CH-47 And AH-64 Helicopters and related equipment. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has officially informed Congress of this development.
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Royal Netherlands Air Force CH-47F Chinook Transport helicopter (Image source: US DoD)
The Dutch government is interested in acquiring a comprehensive training package to support its fleet of CH-47 Chinook And AH-64 Apache Helicopter. This package includes training munitions, Army Supply Class I-VI and VIII-X items, IT equipment, ground components, and miscellaneous parts and accessories. In addition, the sale includes service support associated with Installation Management Command (IMCOM), support from U.S. government personnel and contractors, and other elements of logistics and program support.
The Netherlands conducts its helicopter training at Fort Cavazos, Texas, where the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s 302nd Squadron is based. This training is critical to maintaining the Netherlands’ operational readiness, including its participation in exercise AMERICAN FALCON – a major certification event that prepares Dutch military units for deployments, often in support of U.S.-led coalition missions abroad.
The CH-47 Chinook is a heavy-lift transport helicopter with a tandem rotor configuration used by the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF). This model is particularly valued for its ability to transport heavy and bulky loads over long distances. The CH-47F, the latest version in service with the Dutch armed forces, is equipped with Honeywell T55-GA-714A engines, each producing 4,733 hp, allowing a maximum speed of about 315 km/h. It has an internal capacity for 33 soldiers or up to 10,886 kg of cargo, with the possibility of carrying external loads using a triple hook system. The helicopter is also equipped with advanced digital avionics, GPS navigation systems and a cockpit fully compatible with night vision goggles (NVG), making the CH-47F operational both during the day and at night and in difficult weather conditions. The Chinook is used for logistics transport missions, medical evacuations and special operations support and plays a crucial role in the air mobility capabilities of the Dutch armed forces.
The AH-64 Apache is a versatile attack helicopter of the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF). In particular, the AH-64D Apache Longbow is designed for missions such as close air support, anti-tank and armed reconnaissance. It is powered by two General Electric T700-GE-701C engines, each producing 1,890 hp and enabling a maximum speed of 293 km/h. The AH-64D is equipped with an AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar that can detect and target multiple threats simultaneously, even in poor visibility conditions. The Apache’s main armament includes a 30 mm M230 chain gun, Hydra-70 rockets and laser-guided AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, providing high precision for attacking armored and fortified targets. In addition, the AH-64’s cockpit is fully compatible with night vision goggles (NVG) and the helicopter is equipped with defensive systems to protect against enemy threats. The Apache plays a crucial role in the air combat capabilities of the Dutch armed forces, offering superior firepower and tactical mobility on the battlefield.
