Sikorsky Wins $2.7 Billion CH-53K Order

U.S. Marine Corps Sikorsky CH-53K
Credit: Sikorsky

SPARKS, NEVADA—Sikorsky has received a $2.7 billion contract for the next two production lots of its CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter, the largest order yet for the rotorcraft.

The Aug. 24 order includes 27 for the U.S. Marine Corps, covering Lots 7 and 8, along with eight aircraft for Israel. Deliveries  are scheduled to begin in 2026. Sikorsky, in a statement, says the order advances the company and the U.S. Navy on a path to a multi-year agreement and the overall 200-aircraft program of record.

“This contract award for 35 CH-53K helicopters stabilizes Sikorsky’s nationwide supply base, creates additional production efficiencies, and provides the U.S. Marine Corps with transformative 21st century technologies,” Sikorsky President Paul Lemmo says.

The award for eight CH-53Ks from Israel follows the 2022 initial production announcement for four.

The Navy declared full-rate production for the CH-53K in December 2022 and initial operating capability in April 2022, with Sikorsky targeting a production rate of 20 per year.

The Marine Corps plans its first deployment of CH-53Ks in fiscal 2024. Full operating capacity is expected in 2029.

Brian Everstine

Brian Everstine is the Pentagon Editor for Aviation Week, based in Washington, D.C. Before joining Aviation Week in August 2021, he covered the Pentagon for Air Force Magazine. Brian began covering defense aviation in 2011 as a reporter for Military Times.