Sikorsky secures multiple contracts for CH-53K support
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a division of Lockheed Martin, has been awarded a series of contracts by the U.S. Department of Defense to support the CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter program.
These contracts, which include the procurement of critical components, underscore the continued commitment to the advanced capabilities of the CH-53K aircraft.
Breakdown of Contracts
The Department of Defense announced on 17 December four separate awards, totaling over $450 million, to Sikorsky for essential components and support services:
Main Modules:A $175,740,819 contract was awarded for the procurement of 22 main modules for the CH-53K. Work will be performed in Stratford, Connecticut, and is expected to be completed by November 2034. The Naval Supply Systems Command Weapon Systems Support, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is overseeing the contract.
Main Rotor Blade Assemblies: Sikorsky was awarded $132,983,516 for 128 main rotor blade assemblies. Work will also be carried out in Stratford, Connecticut, with an expected completion date of October 2032. This contract includes $7.1 million funded by Foreign Military Sales customers, reflecting international interest in the CH-53K’s capabilities.
Helicopter Rotor Hub Assemblies: A $111,636,011 contract covers the procurement of eight helicopter rotor hub assemblies. The project is scheduled for completion by August 2032.
Logistics Support Analysis and Technical Publications: Sikorsky was also awarded a $31,351,214 modification to an existing cost-plus-fixed-fee order. Work is expected by December 2025.
The CH-53K King Stallion is the U.S. Marine Corps’ most advanced heavy-lift helicopter, designed to replace the aging CH-53E Super Stallion fleet. With enhanced capabilities, the CH-53K supports missions including troop transport, equipment movement, and humanitarian assistance. The aircraft features increased payload capacity, advanced avionics, and reduced operational and maintenance costs compared to its predecessor.
The latest contracts highlight the strategic importance of the CH-53K in meeting U.S. military and allied operational needs. By securing components such as rotor blades, rotor hubs, and main modules, along with logistics support, the program ensures the sustainability of this critical platform for years to come.
The inclusion of Foreign Military Sales funding in the rotor blade assembly contract underscores the growing interest from international defense forces in the CH-53K. With unmatched heavy-lift capabilities, the helicopter is expected to become a key asset for allied militaries seeking to modernize their fleets.