Israel's Defense Ministry has recently signed an agreement with Elbit Systems to integrate an Israeli systems package into the CH-53K heavy helicopter, which is expected to enter service with the IDF in 2028. The deal is valued at more than 400 million shekels, about 130 million dollars.
The Israeli-made technological package includes command and control systems, avionics and computing systems, electronic warfare suites, warning systems and advanced missile defense systems. The systems will be installed on 12 new helicopters that were purchased to replace the veteran Yasur helicopters, which have been in service for decades.
The CH-53K helicopters were acquired under a Foreign Military Sales agreement signed several years ago between the Defense Ministry and the US administration. The aircraft are manufactured by Lockheed Martin Sikorsky and are currently being assembled on the company's main production line in Connecticut.
Once assembly is completed, the helicopters are expected to move to a dedicated installation and production line established to adapt the aircraft from the US configuration to an Israeli configuration. The modifications will integrate Israeli systems tailored to the operational requirements defined by the Israeli Air Force.
