Aviation News – The U.S. Department of War has signed a $1.4 billion multi-year contract with GE Aerospace to supply engines and sustainment services for the CH-53K King Stallion helicopter, strengthening Marine Corps heavy-lift capabilities and reducing long-term costs.
The agreement secures propulsion support for the next phase of CH-53K production and reinforces the aircraft’s role as a bolt in U.S. military logistics and expeditionary operations.
The five-year, multi-year procurement contract was signed on January 8 and covers production Lots 9 through 13. It includes new production and spare T-408 engines, as well as associated sustainment services, and is expected to generate more than $174 million in savings compared with the Future Years Defense Program. The Department of War and GE Aerospace are the principal parties to the agreement, which supports the ongoing maturation of the CH-53K program.
The T-408 engine is designed to deliver the power and reliability required for heavy-lift missions in austere and maritime environments. Its performance enables the CH-53K to transport heavier payloads over longer distances than its predecessor, improving operational reach and readiness for Marine Corps units.
