LYNN, Mass. – January, 2026 – GE Aerospace has secured a $1.4 billion contract from Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) covering Lots 9–13 of its T408 turboshaft engines, extending its support for the U.S. Marine Corps’ most advanced heavy-lift helicopter, the Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion.

 

The multi-year award follows six previous T408 engine contracts, including the $684 million Lot 6–8 block-buy agreement announced in April 2023. Under the latest contract, GE Aerospace will deliver new production engines, spare engines and sustainment services, with final assembly taking place at the company’s Lynn, Massachusetts facility.

 

The CH-53K King Stallion is designed to meet demanding operational requirements, with the ability to lift up to 36,000 pounds, refuel mid-air and conduct ship-to-shore operations. The helicopter supports a wide range of assault support missions, providing mobility and manoeuvrability for Marines, joint forces and allied operators.

 

Powered by three T408 engines, the CH-53K achieved Initial Operating Capability with the U.S. Marine Corps in April 2022. Each engine delivers 7,500 shaft horsepower, providing 57 per cent more power than the GE Aerospace T64 it replaces. Improved fuel efficiency and maintainability enable the CH-53K to offer three times the range and payload capacity of the CH-53E Super Stallion, enhancing its ability to transport heavy equipment, troops and supplies.

 

The T408 engine also delivers significant life-cycle benefits. Compared to the T64, it offers 18 per cent better specific fuel consumption, 63 per cent fewer parts and advanced design features such as a ruggedised compressor with erosion coating and a split casing. These enhancements improve reliability and ease of maintenance, supporting higher aircraft availability across the fleet.

 

In addition to final assembly in Lynn, components for the T408 programme are supplied by GE Aerospace facilities in Hooksett, New Hampshire; Rutland, Vermont; Madisonville, Kentucky; Dayton, Ohio; and Jacksonville, Florida. MTU Aero Engines in Germany, a programme partner, produces the engine’s power turbine.