BETHESDA, Md. — Lockheed Martin expects deliveries of its CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter to roughly double in 2026 compared with 2025, with deliveries potentially doubling again in 2027.
Chief Financial Officer Evan Scott gave the outlook during the company’s second-quarter 2026 earnings call.
“In the case of 53K, we could be talking 2x deliveries this year versus last year, and potentially doubling again next year,” Scott said.
Lockheed Martin has not disclosed exact CH-53K delivery numbers for 2026 or 2027. The possible increase in 2027 was presented as an outlook rather than a firm production commitment. If both increases occur, annual deliveries could reach roughly four times the 2025 level by 2027.
Sikorsky Production Ramp
The CH-53K increase is part of a wider production ramp at Sikorsky. Lockheed Martin expects all four Sikorsky platforms to deliver more aircraft in 2026 than in 2025.
The company is also increasing F-16 and C-130 deliveries, while 10 munitions programs within its Missiles and Fire Control segment are delivering more units than in 2025.
“We are in a scaling mode right now,” Scott said, noting that Lockheed Martin must increase production while maintaining the resilience needed to manage technical and operational challenges.
Impact on Rotary and Mission Systems
Higher Sikorsky production, combined with increased radar volumes, is expected to strengthen Lockheed Martin’s Rotary and Mission Systems segment during the second half of 2026.
The company raised its full-year sales outlook for the segment to $17.7 billion–$18.1 billion and its profit forecast to $1.86 billion–$1.89 billion.
Lockheed Martin also expects 2026 company-wide sales of $79.75 billion–$81.75 billion, representing about an 8% increase at the midpoint from 2025. Second-half sales are expected to grow 7%–12% year over year, with Missiles and Fire Control expected to lead the expansion and higher Sikorsky production also contributing.
CH-53K Program
The CH-53K is the U.S. Marine Corps’ newest heavy-lift helicopter and is intended to replace the CH-53E Super Stallion. The aircraft can lift up to 36,000 pounds externally, while the Marine Corps plans to acquire 200 helicopters.
As of spring 2026, about 25 CH-53Ks had been delivered to the Marine Corps, with several squadrons already operating the helicopter. Its first operational deployment is planned for fiscal year 2027 with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
In September 2025, Sikorsky received a $10.86 billion multi-year contract for up to 99 additional CH-53Ks for the Marine Corps and possible international customers, covering deliveries from 2029 to 2034. Israel has ordered 12 helicopters.
A separate $525 million contract awarded in June 2026 covers development and integration of advanced technologies for the CH-53K program through 2031.
The expected CH-53K production increase is part of Lockheed Martin’s broader effort to expand output across helicopters, aircraft, radars and munitions as the company responds to higher demand.
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