The U.S. Department of War has awarded Sikorsky a landmark $10.3 billion contract for the procurement of 92 CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopters. This large-scale order significantly boosts the U.S. Marine Corps’ future airlift capability while reflecting a shift in U.S. defense policy branding under the Department of War designation.
The multiyear award spans production Lots 9 through 13 and includes both aircraft and programmatic support. It marks the largest single production increment in the history of the CH-53K program and signals a decisive transition into full-rate production for the Marine Corps. Structured under a fixed-price incentive and firm-fixed-price contract, the deal aligns both government and industry incentives around performance, cost control, and delivery schedules, while reducing development-related risks.
This milestone contract builds on earlier awards that supported program ramp-up and stabilized supply chains. In July 2024, Sikorsky received $120.3 million for long-lead items tied to 21 Lot 9 helicopters. That was followed by a $232.45 million allocation in February 2025 for long-lead procurement for Lot 10 production. These smaller increments laid the groundwork for today’s full-scale production agreement.
The foundation for this major deal was first set in December 2023 with a framework contract that enabled follow-on modifications. With the new award, Sikorsky and the Marine Corps have secured procurement continuity through Lot 13, paving the way for consistent fleet growth and modernization of Marine Corps heavy-lift aviation.
