At the end of 2021, the Israel Defense Forces took an important step in strengthening their heavy-lift transport capabilities. Thanks to an agreement reached with Lockheed Martin, and with the authorization of the United States, the Israeli Ministry of Defense confirmed the purchase of twelve (12) new Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion transport helicopters in a deal valued at US$3 billion, which also included the acquisition of two new Boeing KC-46 Pegasus refueling aircraft.
Since then, there had been no major updates on the production of the Israeli aircraft, while progress continued in the manufacturing and delivery of new CH-53Ks for the United States Marine Corps (USMC). Regarding the latter, as of January 2025, the force already had a total of eighteen (18) aircraft, a figure that will grow to complete the future fleet of 74 heavy-lift helicopters.
Officially designated CH-53K “Praa,” the incorporation of this new platform is highly significant for troop transport and the insertion of special operations elements of the Israel Defense Forces, as has recently been demonstrated in various operations carried out with the support of the veteran CH-53D “Yasur.”
With all this background, today, through its official channels, the Israeli Ministry of Defense officially confirmed that the first CH-53K intended for the Defense Forces is undergoing final assembly work at Sikorsky’s facilities in Stratford, Connecticut. This stage followed the reception of aero-structures produced by Spirit AeroSystems, corresponding to the cabin and fuselage sections.
Lastly, this first aircraft is expected to be delivered to the Israel Defense Forces, marking the start of the delivery schedule and the official adoption of the CH-53K during 2028, providing “…a payload capacity up to three times greater than the current CH-53D ‘Yasur,’ higher flight speed, high survivability on the battlefield, and superior operational and logistical efficiency. The aircraft incorporates advanced digital flight and control systems that enhance air safety and facilitate regular maintenance,” according to the Israeli Ministry of Defense.
*Cover photo used for illustrative purposes.
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