GE Aerospace has been awarded a US$1.4 billion contract by Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) covering Lots 9–13 of its T408 engines, extending its support for the US Marine Corps’ most advanced heavy-lift helicopter, the Sikorsky CH-53K® King Stallion.
The CH-53K is capable of lifting up to 36,000 pounds, refuelling in mid-air, and delivering ship-to-shore mobility and manoeuvrability, while executing a wide range of assault support missions.
This multi-year award follows six previous contracts for the T408 engine, including the US$684 million Lot 6–8 block-buy contract announced in April 2023. Under the latest agreement, GE Aerospace will deliver new production and spare engines, together with sustainment services. Final assembly will be carried out at the company’s facility in Lynn, Massachusetts.
“This latest contract is a testament to the T408’s ability to deliver the power, durability and efficiency the Marine Corps depends on,” said Scott Snyder, Heavy Lift Engines Programme Director. “We are honoured to support the CH-53K and the critical mission it performs for Marines, joint forces and allies around the world.”
The CH-53K, powered by three T408 engines, achieved Initial Operating Capability with the Marine Corps in April 2022. Each T408 delivers 7,500 shaft horsepower—57 per cent more power than its predecessor, the GE Aerospace T64—while also offering significantly improved fuel efficiency and maintainability. As a result, the CH-53K King Stallion provides three times the range and payload capacity of the CH-53E Super Stallion, enabling the transport of heavy equipment, troops and supplies.
