https://aviationweek.com/shows-event...al-replacement
French Air Force Studying Chinook Buy, Caracal Replacement
LONDON—The French Air Force is exploring the potential leasing of Boeing CH-47 Chinooks in an evaluation that could precede a potential heavy lift helicopter fleet purchase.
Commanders are looking at an acquisition of a heavy lift helicopter to fulfill a longstanding capability gap within the French armed forces and meet demands from the country’s special forces.
“The air force is looking to get a few aircraft through leasing to try out this sort of asset before proceeding with an acquisition,” Col. Bruno Paupy, deputy chief of plans at the French Air Force, told the International Military Helicopter conference here on Feb. 25..........