Sikorsky to Customize Israeli Air Force CH-53K Choppers

Israel’s Ministry of Defense has signed a contract with Sikorsky to customize the 12 incoming CH-53K “Pere” helicopters for the Israeli Air Force (IAF).

Under the deal “worth hundreds of millions of dollars,” the Lockheed Martin company will integrate mission systems and equipment designed according to IAF specifications and build a separate production line exclusively for modifying each aircraft.

Sikorsky is currently assembling the CH-53K fleet at its Stratford, Connecticut, headquarters as part of Israel’s $2-billion foreign military sales order from the US in 2021 to replace its CH-53 ​​Yas’ur helicopters, which have been operational since 1969. 

The choppers will support the IAF’s special operations programs, cargo transport, and search and rescue missions.

King Stallion

In service with the US Marine Corps, the Sikorsky CH-53K helicopters are dubbed the “King Stallion” as they can lift and transport heavy equipment, troops, and supplies over long distances in various conditions, including environments with reduced visibility. 

The heavy-lift chopper has a cabin 12 inches (30 centimeters) wider than its previous version with a 36,000-pound (16,329 kilograms) payload capacity, allowing it to carry everything, including the US Army’s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle.

The multi-mission aircraft is designed with a composite airframe and an armored cockpit with a fly-by-wire flight control system for enhanced survivability. 

It is powered by T408 engines from General Electric Aviation, which the US and Israel jointly ordered in 2023.