On Monday, the first updated Chinook helicopter rolled off the assembly line at the Boeing Ridley plant, writes Pete Bannan for the Daily ‘Times.

The event was marked with great fanfare, with Boeing employees, members of the Army, and elected officials gathered to witness the first CH-47F Block helicopter.

It’s the latest design for Chinook, and it promises a craft that can fly farther and lift more, according to Boeing Senior Manager Ed Hassiepen. He estimated the upgrades will keep the Chinook “flying for over a century.”

This newly-designed helicopter will be the first of thousands built at the plant.

A U.S. Army contract keeps the Chinook in production with a $1 billion funding commitment over 20 years.

Six new Chinooks have been ordered so far, with more budgeted.

The plant now has a production rate of 18 aircraft a year.

Germany is also purchasing Chinooks which will up the plant’s production to the mid-20s per year.

“It’s going to stabilize the factory for many years to come,” said Kathleen Jolivette, Boeing Vertical Lift vice president.

The redesigned Chinook has an improved drivetrain, reinforced airframe and a redesigned fuel system that minimizes maintenance and costs.

See what else may be lined up for the Ridley plant in the Daily Times.