Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion

CH-53K King Stallion
A CH-53K in transit to Camp Lejeune, May 2022
Role Heavy transport helicopter
National origin United States
Manufacturer Sikorsky Aircraft
First flight 27 October 2015
Introduction May 2018 (Delivered to USMC)
22 April 2022 (IOC)
Status In production
Primary user United States Marine Corps
Number built 19 (circa early 2023)[1]
Developed from Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion

The Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion (Sikorsky S-95)[2] is a heavy transport helicopter designed and produced by Sikorsky Aircraft. The King Stallion is an evolution of the long running CH-53 series of helicopters which has been in continuous service since 1966, and features three up-rated 7,500 shp (5,590 kW) engines, new composite rotor blades, and a wider aircraft cabin than its predecessors. It is the largest and heaviest helicopter in the U.S. military.

The United States Marine Corps plans to receive 200 helicopters at a total cost of $25 billion. Ground Test Vehicle (GTV) testing started in April 2014; flight testing began with the maiden flight on 27 October 2015. In May 2018, the first CH-53K was delivered to the Marine Corps. On 22 April 2022, it was declared to have passed initial operational capability.[3] Israel has also reportedly ordered the type; other potential export customers include Japan.

  1. ^ "Sikorsky Delivers Two More CH-53K® Helicopters to U.S. Marine Corps". Lockheed Martin. 13 February 2023. Archived from the original on 18 December 2023. Retrieved 10 April 2023.
  2. ^ "Sikorsky Builds Marine Corps Heavy Lift". Sikorsky Archives. p. 9. Archived from the original on 19 July 2023.
  3. ^ Eckstein, Megan (25 April 2022). "Marine Corps declares its heavy-lift helicopter operational". Defense News. Archived from the original on 11 January 2024.

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