# Britain awarded a three-year, 16.5-billion-rand contract to Boeing to maintain and support its Apaché attack helicopters and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters operated by the Royal Air Force. The government says the contract ensures mission readiness and long-term support for these platforms, which have seen extensive service in conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya. The announcement follows the recent completion of the British Army’s modernisation programme, which saw the delivery of its 50th Apaché early last year.
UK government hands Boeing R16.5-billion military helicopter contract