United States, Feb. 14 -- The Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) has ordered 17 CH-47 Block II Chinooks Extended Range to modernize its fleet, replacing some of its CH-47 JA aircraft. The aircraft will be co-produced by Boeing and Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI).Boeing and KHI have delivered over 100 Chinooks to the JSDF since the 1980s, making it one of the longest lasting and most successful license manufacturing programs in Japan. The Block II Chinook extended range aircraft is the next generation of heavy-lift, and multi-mission helicopter. This aircraft features an advanced digital cockpit, reinforced airframe, enhanced fuel tanks, and other improvements allowing increased performance and commonality with the expanding global fleet of up...