Largest helicopter contract in history - US Navy orders 35 CH-53 King Stallion helicopters worth $2.77bn

The US Navy has awarded Sikorsky (a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin) the largest helicopter purchase contract in history. The service has ordered CH-53K King Stallion for the US Marine Corps and for the Israeli Air Force.

Here's What We Know

The new agreement covers batches #7 and #8 (12 and 15 helicopters, respectively) for the U.S. Marine Corps. The Israeli Air Force will receive eight CH-53K King Stallion helicopters. The contract value is estimated at $2.77bn.

The deal for 35 CH-53K helicopters will stabilise Sikorsky's nationwide supply base. The agreement will create additional manufacturing efficiencies and provide the U.S. Marine Corps with transformative 21st century technologies. The announcement was made by Sikorsky President Paul Lemmo. Deliveries will begin in 2026.

Israel ordered four helicopters in 2022 under the Foreign Military Sales agreement. The CH-53K King Stallion will support the special operations programme. Thus, Israel will receive 12 helicopters with an option for six more.

As for the US Marine Corps, it has a programme for 200 King Stallion. Lot 7 and Lot 8 were the first two full production contracts. Sikorsky has only built 42 helicopters under Lot 1-6 at its Connecticut plant. The Marine Corps wants to buy 21 CH-53Ks annually starting in fiscal year 2025.

Source: Lockheed Martin