The Boeing [BA] yesterday said it selected L-3 Communications MAS [LLL]of Mirabel and General Dynamics Canada [GD] of Ottawa for two In-Service Support Program contracts for Canadian Forces CH-147F Chinook helicopters. 


The new helicopters are moving ahead of schedule, with a second helicopter coming off the production line this month. Initial flights in June completed confirming initial airworthiness, the new electrical system and advanced Common Avionics Architecture System cockpit. Also completed was the Limited Acceptance Test Procedure to validate helicopter performance and systems (Defense Daily, July 12).
Boeing announced the first group of three In-Service Support Program awards in January.
L-3 MAS received a contract then for technical publications, Raytheon [RTN] Canada received supply chain support work and L-3 Electronic Systems received work in logistics support analysis (Defense Daily, Jan.31).
In this phase, L-3 MAS was selected to provide support and test equipment.
General Dynamics Canada has received a maintenance training suite/contractor maintenance support contract. 


“Boeing looks forward to continuing to build and strengthen our relationship with both the Canadian Forces and Canadian industry as we add to our growing list of Performance-Based Logistics (PBL) customers around the world,” said Jim O’Neill, vice president and general manager, Boeing Integrated Logistics. 

Through Canada’s Industrial and Regional Benefits (IRB) Policy, Boeing’s IRB commitments on the CH-147F In-Service Support Program will bring benefits of approximately $2 billion to Canada over a 20-year period. 

Jacques Comtois, vice president and general manager of L-3 MAS, said: “This is a testament to L-3 MAS’ commitment to customer focus, flawless execution and long-term partnerships.” 

“Our experience developing and managing In-Service Support programs has provided us with valuable expertise in the areas of courseware development, training devices and support,” said David Ibbetson, vice president and general manager, General Dynamics Canada.
Life-cycle support of the CH-147F will be delivered through a long-term PBL program that includes full system logistics and training services. Boeing holds numerous PBL contracts with customers around the world and across multiple platforms, including the Chinook, AH-64 Apache helicopter, C-17 and F-15.