Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion
The Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion (Sikorsky S-95) is a heavy-lift cargo helicopter designed and produced by Sikorsky Aircraft. The King Stallion is an evolution of the long running CH-53 series of helicopters which have been in continuous service since 1966, and features three uprated 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.
| CH-53K King Stallion | |
|---|---|
| A CH-53K in transit to Camp Lejeune | |
| Role | Heavy-lift cargo helicopter |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Sikorsky Aircraft |
| First flight | 27 October 2015 |
| Introduction | 22 April 2022 |
| Status | In production |
| Primary user | United States Marine Corps |
| Number built | 9 |
| Developed from | Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion |
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. Israel has also reportedly ordered the type; other potential export customers include Japan and Germany.