WASHINGTON (Realist English). Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company (NYSE: LMT), has secured a $10.855 billion contract from the US Navy to produce up to 99 CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopters for the Marine Corps over the next five years. The award, the largest to date for the aircraft, will ensure deliveries between 2029 and 2034 and sustain thousands of jobs across Sikorsky and its nationwide supply chain.
“This award reflects trust and confidence in Sikorsky to deliver technologically advanced, heavy-lift helicopters that will revolutionize the Marine Corps’ operational capabilities,” said Rich Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager. He added that the multi-year agreement will “drive long-term affordability, optimize production efficiencies and stabilize our supply chain and workforce.”
The deal consolidates five separate procurement lots (9–13) into a single multi-year order, providing cost predictability and securing material flow from 267 suppliers across 37 states and 17 international partners in eight countries. While primarily intended for the Marine Corps, the contract also allows for potential international sales.
To date, Sikorsky has delivered 20 CH-53K aircraft, with another 63 helicopters (Lots 4–8) in production. “This contract represents a huge win for the entire CH-53K team,” said Col. Kate Fleeger, Program Manager for the H-53 Heavy Lift Helicopter Program Office. She noted that the structure of the deal will enable bulk supplier purchases, lowering costs and ensuring reliable fleet deliveries.
The Marine Corps has already transitioned one squadron to the CH-53K, with aircraft currently in developmental testing, operational testing and training units. Designed to meet modern battlefield requirements, the King Stallion can transport troops, supplies and heavy equipment across contested environments while maintaining survivability.
The Navy approved full-rate production of the CH-53K in December 2022. The Marine Corps’ program of record remains set at 200 aircraft.