Aviation News – The German Air Force has officially re-established Helicopter Wing 64 at Holzdorf Air Base by transferring its wing headquarters, Flying Group, and Technical Group from Laupheim. The strategic relocation prepares the base south of Berlin to host the majority of the nation’s incoming heavy-lift tactical support aircraft.
This structural reorganization directly supports the planned integration of 60 newly ordered CH-47F Block II Chinook heavy-lift helicopters. Under the distribution strategy, 47 of these modern aircraft will be permanently stationed at the expanded Holzdorf facility to lead tactical transport missions. Meanwhile, Laupheim will retain two units for specific operational duties, and a single aircraft will be deployed to Manching for long-term flight testing and equipment evaluation.
The strategic adjustment ensures that operational command is centralized near the capital while maintaining specialized air support roles across additional regional hubs. Notably, three dedicated CH-47F aircraft will be assigned specifically to Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) missions based at Laupheim. These heavy-lift assets will operate directly alongside H145M light utility helicopters already supporting German Special Operations Forces (SOF) at the location.
The CH-47F Block II variant delivers upgraded lifting capability, advanced digital flight management controls, and improved airframe durability designed for demanding heavy-lift environments. Transitioning to this modern twin-engine tandem-rotor platform allows defense forces to rapidly transport large military units, heavy machinery, and tactical supplies over extended operational ranges. Operational efficiency will improve significantly as standardized heavy-lift capabilities replace aging rotorcraft assets.
“Re-establishing the wing headquarters at Holzdorf forms a critical structural foundation as we prepare our infrastructure for the arrival of modern heavy-lift capabilities,” stated defense officials regarding the unit reorganization. “Aligning our operational command directly with primary operational bases ensures maximum tactical readiness across all planned mission profiles.”
The first CH-47F Block II deliveries are expected to arrive in Germany by the end of 2027, initiating a comprehensive multi-year modernization process for European military airlift operations. Once fully operational, the fleet will bolster joint defense capabilities and strengthen air mobility across NATO‘s eastern flank. The infrastructure upgrades underway at Holzdorf will ultimately position the base as a major military rotorcraft hub for decades to come.
