Sikorsky Awarded $2.7B Contract With U.S. Navy

STRATFORD, CT — Stratford-based Sikorsky was awarded a $2.7 billion contract by the U.S. Navy to build and deliver 35 additional CH-53K helicopters, officials announced Thursday.

“This contract award for 35 CH-53K helicopters stabilizes Sikorsky’s nationwide supply base, creates additional production efficiencies, and provides the U.S. Marine Corps with transformative 21st century technologies,” Sikorsky President Paul Lemmo said in a news release. “Our long-standing partnership led to this best value contract award providing the capability and readiness the Marines need.”

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, will begin delivering these aircraft in 2026.

The CH-53K program supports nearly 8,000 Sikorsky employees across Connecticut, according to Democratic U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3).

“Sikorsky makes the best helicopters in the world and is one of the largest employers in Connecticut,” DeLauro said in a statement. “The company and its employees are the lifeblood of our community. I fight in Congress to ensure they have the necessary resources to remain competitive and continue to create and support jobs in our community. This $2.7 billion award will keep good paying jobs in Connecticut and ensures that Stratford continues to build the helicopters of the future.”

State Sen. Kevin Kelly (R-Stratford) applauded the “unprecedented award” for Sikorsky.

“Connecticut has a rich history as a world leader in flight,” Kelly said in a statement. “The best helicopters in the world are made right here, by the most talented workforce. This award is a testament to our local workers and the continued innovation that enables the production of the best goods and services to keep our nation and those who serve it safe. This helicopter will help our Marines save refugees and provide humanitarian aid all around the world.

“The production of this helicopter was made possible through the partnership between the state, Sikorsky and Lockheed Martin, the Teamsters and labor. An unprecedented award like this shows the type of teamwork we need to rebuild our economy.”