Boeing has signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) to expand the existing support contract for the latter’s AH-64 Apache and CH-47 Chinook helicopters.
The agreement provides scope for collaboration in new areas such as engaging Dutch suppliers for maintenance, and repair and overhaul (MRO) work; and expanding the use of the Logistics Center Woensdrecht (LCW).
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LCW is a military logistics centre managed by the Netherlands Ministry of Defence.
Royal Netherlands Air Force commander lieutenant general Alexander Schnitger said the agreement will help in increasing the availability of Apache and Chinook fleets while reducing their operating costs.
"This innovative way of cooperation with Boeing is a blueprint for future cooperation between the Royal Netherlands Air Force and other original equipment manufacturers," Schnitger said.
Boeing Global Services & Support Rotorcraft Support vice-president Tim Sassenrath said, "Today’s signing continues our successful innovative partnership that delivers top quality and affordable support to the Royal Netherlands Air Force, increasing performance and readiness."
The company has simultaneously signed an agreement with Fokker Technologies to work together on the MRO activities for Dutch rotorcraft and other customers.
The agreements also enable Boeing to continue support for the Netherlands Maintenance Valley Initiative, a Dutch government effort to bolster the country’s position as a regional hub for MRO activities.
Fokker Technologies CEO Hans Buthker said, "This program offers great potential for the future and seamlessly fits our strategic goals."
Image: AH-64 Apache attack helicopter of the Royal Netherlands Air Force. Photo: courtesy of Neuwieser.
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