Helis, January 20, 2021 - Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron One (VMX-1) flew the first non-developmental sortie of the Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion from Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River in North Carolina on January 15.
The helicopter now enters a new phase of testing to train Marines as they prepare for Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) later this year.
The CH-53K is the future US Marine Corps heavy lift helicopter and will replace the current CH-53E Super Stallion. First deployment is expected for 2023-2024.
Four Engineering Development Model (EDM) prototypes and four System Demonstration Test Article (STDA) aircraft are conducting the flight test program which started in 2015.
Last year and for the first time, a CH-53K completed sea trials. During two weeks aboard amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD-1), the helicopter was tested in its future natural environment.
The USMC plans to obtain 200 CH-53K production aircraft to stand up 8 active duty, 1 reserve and 1 training squadron. Last October, Sikorsky was awarded a $550M contract for first 6 Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) aircraft.
The helicopter now enters a new phase of testing to train Marines as they prepare for Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) later this year.
The CH-53K is the future US Marine Corps heavy lift helicopter and will replace the current CH-53E Super Stallion. First deployment is expected for 2023-2024.
Four Engineering Development Model (EDM) prototypes and four System Demonstration Test Article (STDA) aircraft are conducting the flight test program which started in 2015.
Last year and for the first time, a CH-53K completed sea trials. During two weeks aboard amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD-1), the helicopter was tested in its future natural environment.
The USMC plans to obtain 200 CH-53K production aircraft to stand up 8 active duty, 1 reserve and 1 training squadron. Last October, Sikorsky was awarded a $550M contract for first 6 Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) aircraft.
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CH-53K King Stallion in
US Marine Corps VMX-1
Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron One US Marine Corps VMX-1 Conducting Flight Tests of CH-53K
