The CH-53K King Stallion is entering service with the USMC. (Sikorsky)

Sikorsky and Rheinmetall have signed a strategic teaming agreement to compete in the German Air Force ‘Schwerer Transporthubschrauber’ (STH) heavy lift helicopter Program.

The program seeks to replace the Luftwaffe’s 40-year old CH-53G heavy lift helicopters, for which the team will offer the CH-53K King Stallion which is currently entering service with the US Marine Corps.

“With Rheinmetall as the strategic partner for Sikorsky, we are convinced that together we provide the best possible state-of-the-art aircraft for the German Air Force as successor for the legacy CH-53G fleet,” Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger said in a statement. “Furthermore, we stand strongly together in offering a cost-effective, reliable solution oriented to the needs of today’s operations, and able to evolve with the Armed Forces as its needs change over time.”

Dan Schultz, president of Sikorsky added, “Sikorsky has a 45-year history supporting the German Armed Forces fleet of CH-53G aircraft, and we are humbled by the opportunity to continue to serve the German Armed Forces for another 45 years with Sikorsky’s CH-53K.”