Fox’s sights on £1bn helicopter boost

The Royal Air Force will receive 14 new Chinooks in a £1bn contract, the Ministry of Defence announced yesterday. The deal, with American firm Boeing, will bring the total force of the heavy-lift helicopters to 60 – the biggest capability in Europe.

The aircraft are vital to Nato operations in Afghanistan, offering support to both British and other nations’ forces.

The contract includes development, building and five years of support.

Dr Fox told reporters at the base: “This Government is committed to delivering a top-class equipment programme that is properly funded.”