Sikorsky gains King Stallion FMS contract modification for Israel
Rendering of CH-53K King Stallion helicopter in Israeli livery. (Image: Lockheed Martin)
Lockheed Martin company Sikorsky has obtained a $372.04 million FMS contract modification from US Naval Air Systems Command to manufacture and deliver four LRIP Lot 6 CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopters for Israel.
Sikorsky will also provide ‘associated aircraft programmatic and logistical support’, the DoD announced on 15 February.
Work will take place at various US locations as well as in Canada, France and UK, for completion by November 2025.
The Israeli MoD confirmed on 31 December 2021 a deal to buy 12 King Stallions with an option to acquire six more, as part of a $3.1 billion FMS package that also includes two Boeing KC-46A Pegasus refuelling aircraft.
The CH-53Ks will replace ageing CH-53D Yasur helicopters in Israeli service.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Forecast $21.9 billion light attack and trainer opportunities up for grabs as Leonardo lines up M-346
The M-346 stands as a potential contender for various countries facing impending capability gaps due to ageing trainer aircraft, while it could also be selected as a cost-effective light fighter aircraft.
-
US Air Force seeks capabilities to improve C3 for aircraft fleet and warfighters
The USAF published RFIs for enhancing its C3 capabilities after losing, in Operation Epic Fury, four aircraft in non-confrontational, unclear situations that could have been related to command, control and communication failures.
-
European CCA programmes see progress as industry narrows in on key flight milestones
European defence firms including Airbus, Helsing, General Atomics and Anduril are accelerating development and testing of collaborative combat aircraft to meet Germany’s loyal wingman requirement, targeting operational deployment by the end of the decade.
-
Leonardo plans to fly uncrewed fighters alongside M-346 aircraft by mid-2026
The two uncrewed fighter aircraft will be made in conjunction with Baykar, which joined forces with Leonardo under LBA Systems in June 2025 to develop and produce uncrewed aerial systems for the international market.
-
UK firm Skycutter comes out top in first US Drone Dominance Program competition
The startup was the only UK company to take part in the first Gauntlet for the programme, joining forces with its Ukraine partner to participate in the event.