Germany Releases Draft Tender To Replace Ageing CH-53 Choppers

Germany has released a draft tender for the procurement of new 44-60 heavy-lift helicopters to replace the ageing fleet of Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters.

The new helicopter should be capable of transporting personnel and equipment and have a maximum take-off weight greater than 20 tons, the tender read.

It was issued by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support on 28 February. The tender covers purchase of helicopters for the German Air Force (Luftwaffe) over an eight-year delivery period.

Bids for the nearly $6.4 billion program are due by May 27. The Luftwaffe is to field 44 to 60 STHs between 2023 and 2031 after a final contract award in 2021. Included in the contract value are maintenance, repair and overhaul; as well as the training of pilots and technicians.