Lockheed's $29 Billion Helicopter Running Short of a Needed Part
- Marine Corps commandant says he’s monitoring the situation
- Trump authorized potential investment in a new supplier
A Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion helicopter.
Source: U.S. NavyThis article is for subscribers only.
Timely delivery of Lockheed Martin Corp.’s $29 billion CH-53K King Stallion helicopter for the U.S. Marine Corps may be jeopardized by a potential shortage of specialized metal components two years after the bankruptcy of a key supplier.
In an illustration of how even the biggest defense contractor depends on its supply chain, the Navy’s aircraft development and acquisition command has assembled a team with Lockheed to assess options for ensuring a steady supply of the parts. General Robert Neller, the Marine Corps commandant, is monitoring the issue.