Utility Helicopter
CH-53K King Stallion
The Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion is a heavy-lift helicopter built by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, for the US Marine Corps, with initial capability declared in April 2022. It replaces the CH-53E and is the heaviest helicopter in the US military.
United States|Sikorsky (Lockheed Martin)What Is the CH-53K King Stallion? Overview, History and Development
The CH-53K first flew on 27 October 2015. It has three GE T408 turboshafts of 7,500 shp each, a seven-blade rotor 24 m wide and fly-by-wire controls. It can carry an external load of up to 12,200 kg over 110 nautical miles in hot conditions, about three times the CH-53E’s load, or 30 troops inside. Maximum takeoff weight is about 39,900 kg, top speed about 315 km/h and range about 841 km.
The programme of record is 200 aircraft, and a multi-year deal for up to 99 was awarded in September 2025, valued at about US$10 billion. Israel ordered 20 with first deliveries scheduled for 2026, and Germany ordered 35 in late 2025 for about US$8.5 billion. A GAO report noted cost growth and delays, and unit cost is about US$100–130 million. Rivals include the CH-47F and Mi-26.
CH-53K King Stallion Specifications: Speed, Range, Payload and Armament
CH-53K King Stallion Variants and Versions Compared
The older heavy-lift Marine helicopter with three engines, which the CH-53K replaces.
The new-build heavy-lift helicopter with composite blades and fly-by-wire controls, in Marine service.
The Israeli order of 20 aircraft, with first deliveries scheduled for 2026.
Which Countries Use the CH-53K King Stallion? Operators and Users
United StatesCH-53K King Stallion FAQ: Price, Range, Operators and Most Asked Questions
How much does the CH-53K King Stallion cost?
The CH-53K costs about US$100–130 million per aircraft, according to estimates, which is higher than the CH-53E. A US GAO report noted cost growth and delays in the programme.
How much can the CH-53K lift?
The CH-53K can lift an external sling load of up to 12,200 kg (27,000 lb) over 110 nautical miles in high and hot conditions. That is about three times the CH-53E’s capability, and it can carry 30 troops internally.
Which countries use the CH-53K?
The CH-53K is used by the US Marine Corps, with Israel as the first foreign customer with 20 ordered and Germany ordering 35 in late 2025. No Arab country has ordered the type.
CH-53K vs CH-47F Chinook: which is better?
The CH-53K lifts a 12,200 kg sling load and has three engines and fly-by-wire controls, while the tandem-rotor CH-47F Chinook is a lighter-lifting but cheaper and widely used type. The CH-53K is the heavier, newer helicopter.
CH-53K vs Mi-26: which is bigger?
The Mi-26 is bigger, with a 20 t maximum payload and 56,000 kg takeoff weight, against 12,200 kg sling load and 39,900 kg for the CH-53K. The CH-53K is the heaviest helicopter in the US military.
How fast is the CH-53K?
The CH-53K has a maximum speed of about 315 km/h and cruises at about 278 km/h. Its range is about 841 km, and it can be refuelled in the air.