Sikorsky tasked with full-rate production for CH-53K

Full-rate production will give confidence in the diverse network of more than 200 CH‑53K suppliers across 35 states, allowing bulk purchases and resulting efficiencies.

The U.S. Navy has declared full rate production of the Sikorsky CH-53K helicopter, a decision that is expected to increase production to more than 20 helicopters annually in the coming years. Sikorsky is procuring long-lead items and critical materials to support building full rate production CH-53K helicopters in its digital factory.

“Ramping up production of the most technologically advanced helicopter in the world allows the U.S. Marine Corps to build out its CH-53K King Stallion fleet and support mission success,” says Bill Falk, director of the Sikorsky CH-53K program. “This production authorization stabilizes Sikorsky's domestic supply chain and is a testament to our enduring partnership with the Marine Corps.”

This full-rate production decision instills confidence in the diverse network of more than 200 CH‑53K suppliers across 35 states. The Marine Corps' commitment to the CH-53K will allow suppliers to purchase in bulk, creating efficiencies and driving down overall costs for the U.S. military and international allies.