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Lockheed Martin Sikorsky Wins a Landmark Contract for Heavy-Lift Helicopters

In a significant boost to military operations, Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, has been awarded a $10.855 billion contract by the U.S. Navy. The contract allows for the production of up to 99 CH-53K King Stallion helicopters for the U.S. Marine Corps over the next five years. This deal marks the largest procurement of this model to date and promises to enhance the Marine Corps' operational capabilities dramatically.

Stabilizing the Industrial Base

The newly signed agreement not only ensures the consistent delivery of these powerful heavy-lift helicopters from 2029 to 2034 but also stabilizes the U.S. industrial base. By sustaining thousands of jobs at Sikorsky and across its extensive supply chain, this contract underscores a crucial commitment to U.S. military readiness and economic stability.

Rich Benton, the vice president and general manager of Sikorsky, expressed his enthusiasm for the deal, stating, "This award reflects trust and confidence in Sikorsky to deliver these technologically advanced, heavy-lift helicopters that will revolutionize the Marine Corps' operational capabilities."

Enhanced Capability and Affordability

The procurement is designed to improve long-term affordability and optimize production efficiencies. Sikorsky anticipates that the contract's multi-year nature will allow it to partner effectively with the Department of the Navy. This partnership aims to ensure that U.S. Marines maintain a robust strategic advantage in a rapidly evolving battlefield environment.

The contract combines five separate aircraft orders, referred to as Lots 9-13, providing price predictability and a consistent supply of materials. This consolidation allows for more efficient procurement from 267 suppliers across 37 states and 17 countries, ensuring that the production process remains streamlined and effective.

Current Progress and Future Projections

To date, Sikorsky has successfully delivered 20 CH-53K helicopters to the Marine Corps, with an additional 63 aircraft currently in various stages of production and assembly. This ongoing production aligns with the U.S. Marine Corps' Program of Record, which calls for a total of 200 CH-53K helicopters.

Col. Kate Fleeger, Program Manager for the H-53 Heavy Lift Helicopter Program Office, called the contract a significant victory for the entire CH-53K team. She noted that it not only secures better pricing for the government but also provides a more dependable timeline as the Marines transition from the older CH-53E fleet to the new, cutting-edge CH-53K.

Meeting Demands of Modern Warfare

The CH-53K helicopter is specially designed to meet the lift requirements of today’s battlefield. It excels in transporting troops, supplies, and heavy equipment across contested environments while ensuring the capability to survive in high-threat scenarios. With full-rate production declared in December 2022, the CH-53K is well set to expand its role in supporting U.S. military operations effectively.

For more in-depth insights on the CH-53K program, visit the Lockheed Martin website. With this contract, Sikorsky reaffirms its commitment to advancing the capabilities of the Marine Corps and the safety of our service members worldwide.