Lockheed Martin-Sikorsky has started assembling the first CH-53K “Pereh” helicopter for the Israeli Air Force (IAF). The announcement was made by Israel’s Ministry of Defense on its official Facebook page.
The contract, signed at the end of 2021 under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, provides for the delivery of 12 aircraft at an estimated cost of US$ 2 billion. Sikorsky has already received the cockpit and cabin sections of the first helicopter, which are now moving to final assembly.
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Although initial plans called for deliveries to begin in 2026, the latest forecast indicates that the first CH-53K will arrive in Israel only in 2028.
A new era for Israeli transport aviation
The new CH-53K “Pereh” helicopters will replace the veteran CH-53D “Yas’ur,” in service since 1969, offering up to three times more payload capacity. The model can carry up to 12.2 tons on an external sling, with a maximum takeoff weight of 39.9 tons, a range of about 200 km, and speeds of up to 315 km/h, powered by GE38-1B engines.
This modernization represents a strategic leap for Israel, ensuring greater mobility, efficiency, and readiness in both military and humanitarian operations.
Source and images: Israel Ministry of Defense | Lockheed Martin-Sikorsky. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
