Lockheed Martin announced the CH-53K King Stallion passed its Defense Acquisition Board assessment that approved for the aircraft to begin low-rate initial production on April 4, 2017. <br /><br />The CH-53K will be considered the most powerful helicopter in the Department of Defense and is scheduled to completely replace the CH-53E Super Stallion by 2030.<br /><br />-----------------------<br /><br />Credit to : Lance Cpl. Molly Hampton - Communication Directorate