Israel to acquire American CH-53 Helicopters for $2.4 Billion

Israel’s ministerial committee on defense procurement has approved a $2.4 billion agreement to acquire CH-53k heavy-lift helicopters from American aerospace firm Lockheed Martin.

Using aid money from the US, the country will purchase 10 to 15 CH-53k helicopters to replace its aging fleet of Sikorsky CH-53 Yasur helicopters to address the Israeli Air Force’s operational requirements amid “the challenges of the changing battlefield.”

Designed to lift nearly 14 tons (12,700 kilograms) of payload, the CH-53k allows the quick and efficient movement of troops and heavy equipment from ship to shore and higher altitude terrain.

The aircraft also features a fly-by-wire control system, making it semi-automatic. It can also perform in high, hot, low-visibility, and sea-based environments at a maximum speed of 172 miles (276 kilometers) per hour.

Additionally, the CH-53K is fitted with fully integrated flight and navigation displays, as well as a mechanical diagnostic system that signals when aircraft parts need to be replaced.