Kaman Composites - Wichita has celebrated the delivery of the 1,500th inlet unit for the CH-47 Boeing program. Originally developed in the late 1950s, the Chinook CH-47 is still among the heaviest lifting helicopters in operation today.

The Kaman manufactured inlets are a vital application on the CH-47 and its derivatives. The two largest users of this helicopter are the U.S. Army and the British Royal Air Force. Production of new aircraft, as well as modifications to some of the existing CH-47 fleet, are planned over the next few years, according to Forecast International.

“The CH-47 inlets exemplify our strong history of supporting defense programs for major OEMs like Boeing,” says Shawn Hawks, general manager, Kaman Composites. “We have a dedicated and highly experienced workforce, including many who have been here since this program's inception more than 30 years ago.”

“Kaman is a recognised aerospace supplier for many defense programs, encompassing both fixed-wing and rotorcraft platforms. The most impressive aspect of this program is the longevity of the Chinook and the ability of the Kaman team to sustain the highest level of support for a program that is not only vital to our military but also to a number of allied partners around the world,” adds Malissa Nesmith, senior business development director, Kaman Composite Structures.