Realized under to a Joint Industrial Agreement with The Boeing Company, the Italian ICH-47F programme sees AgustaWestland prime contractor with responsibility for systems integration, final assembly and aircraft delivery to the Italian Army. The agreement also includes a licensing arrangement that enables AgustaWestland to market, sell and produce these "Chinooks" for other countries.

Within the frame of this agreement, Finmeccanica - AgustaWestland delivered to the Italian Army its first two ICH-47F Chinook helicopters during an official ceremony held at Vergiate plant (Italy). The ceremony was attended by the Italian Army Chief of Staff Gen. Claudio Graziano, the Director of ARMAEREO Lt. General Domenico Esposito and representatives from the industry. 

Deliveries of all 16 aircraft ordered will be completed in 2017. The contract also includes a five year logistic support service. The ICH-47Fs will be operated by the Italian Army Aviation 1st Regiment "Antares" based in Viterbo and they will replace the CH-47C Chinooks that have been in service since 1973.

The primary tactical mission of the ICH-47F aircraft is to provide air transportation for equipment and troops., and can additionally perform special support functions, disaster relief and firefighting roles.

Vergiate 02/10/2014

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