Sikorsky CH-53K (Lockheed Martin)
The Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) has signed a major contract worth hundreds of millions of dollars with Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, to equip 12 CH-53K helicopters with advanced mission systems tailored for the Israeli Air Force (IAF).
The agreement, signed by the IMOD Mission to the United States in New York City, will enhance the helicopters’ operational capabilities, ensuring they meet the IAF’s specific defense and mission requirements.
This deal marks a significant step in Israel’s efforts to modernize its air fleet, strengthening national security and defense readiness.
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Assembly of all 12 CH-53K aircraft for Israel is currently underway at Sikorsky headquarters in Stratford, Connecticut, USA, as part of a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract signed between the IMOD and the U.S. Government several years ago. The 12 new CH-53K helicopters are set to replace the IAF “Yas’ur” (storm) helicopters.
The Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion is a heavy-lift cargo helicopter developed by Sikorsky Aircraft, a Lockheed Martin company, for the United States Marine Corps (USMC). It is the most powerful helicopter in the Department of Defense.
The CH-53K King Stallion is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the CH-53E Super Stallion, offering increased lift capacity, range, and advanced technology. It is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the USMC’s amphibious operations and other heavy-lift requirements, as well as enhancing the capabilities of the Israeli Air Force.
Under the signed mission systems contract, Sikorsky will build a separate production line exclusively to modify each aircraft from the standard U.S. Marine Corps configuration to the rigorous operational mission requirements specified by the IAF. Additionally, Sikorsky will integrate avionics, navigation systems, and electronic warfare suites supplied by the IMOD.
