Hexcel Advanced Composite Structures Selected for CH-53K Cargo Ramp Production
New award recognizes Hexcel leadership in producing high-complexity aircraft structures
STAMFORD, Conn., June 24, 2022 – Hexcel Corporation (NYSE: HXL) has announced that it has been awarded a long-term agreement by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company, to supply advanced composite structures for the CH-53K King Stallion heavy lift helicopter
program. The award significantly expands Hexcel composite content on the aircraft.
Currently, Hexcel supplies carbon fiber prepregs, honeycomb and rotor blade components for the CH-53K. Under this new agreement, Hexcel also will supply composite structures for production of the cargo ramp and aft-kit components, with the first delivery of these parts expected to Sikorsky in 2023.
The CH-53K is a new-build helicopter produced for the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and is the most powerful helicopter in the U.S. Department of Defense. It expands the fleet’s ability to move equipment more rapidly and is designed to lift nearly 14 tons at a mission radius of 110 nautical miles.
“Hexcel is excited to expand our relationship with the Sikorsky team and to strengthen our investment in and commitment to the success of the CH-53K program,” said Charles Dunbar, Vice President – Sales, Americas Aerospace. “This award is a testament to our unique capabilities to produce intricate, multi-component assemblies, and we look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the Sikorsky team and growing our content on this remarkable aircraft.”
The composite structures will be made at Hexcel Kent (WA). The site is focused on manufacturing high-quality, high-rate complex aircraft structures. It is a leading provider of primary, secondary, and flight-critical composite structures for Commercial Aerospace and for Space & Defense programs such as rotorcraft applications.
Photo: First flight of the CH-53K, September 22, 2021. Used with the permission of Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company.
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About Hexcel
Hexcel Corporation is a global leader in advanced lightweight composites technology. We propel the future of flight, energy generation, transportation, and recreation through excellence in providing innovative high-performance material solutions that are lighter, stronger and tougher, helping to create a better world for us all. Our broad and unrivaled product range includes carbon fiber, specialty reinforcements, prepregs and other fiber-reinforced matrix materials, honeycomb, resins, engineered core and composite structures for use in commercial aerospace, space and defense, and industrial applications.
Contact: Kaye Veazey | VP Corporate & Marketing Communications | kaye.veazey@hexcel.com
