Singapore will deploy up to four Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) CH-47 Chinook helicopters from its Peace Prairie detachment in Grand Prairie, Texas, to assist with the United States (US)' relief operations in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.

The offer was conveyed by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong earlier (2130hrs SG Time) when he spoke to US President Donald Trump while the latter was en route to Texas.  Prime Minister Lee said this was a small gesture to express our appreciation and gratitude to the US and in particular the State of Texas, which have been good hosts for our Peace Prairie detachment. President Trump thanked PM Lee and accepted his offer of help.

The RSAF's helicopters will be able to airlift troops and evacuees, as well as transport supplies to where they are needed the most.  The Peace Prairie Detachment provided similar assistance after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The first Chinooks are expected to commence relief operations today.