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A computer-generated impression of the CH-53K in USMC service. The aircraft completed its first test flight on 27 October. Source: Sikorsky
The US Marine Corps' (USMC's) CH-53K heavy-lift helicopter completed its first test flight on 27 October, about a seven-month delay due mainly to problems with the helicopter's main gear box, company and military officials said during a teleconference.
"This is a key step toward fielding this brand-new capability," USMC Colonel Hank Vanderborght said after the flight. He said the aircraft would improve the amphibious service's ability to move cargo from ships and participate in disaster relief missions.
The corps expects to purchase 200 of the helicopters for approximately USD29 billion. The first operational squadron is expected to be ready by 2019. Col Vanderborght said the gear box problem would likely result in a five-month delay in production until January 2017.
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USMC CH-53K conducts first test flight - IHS Jane's 360
