The Army's proposed heavy lift requirement to transport the Future Combat System greatly exceeds our requirement. The actual aircraft hasn't been designed yet, but initial analysis suggests the joint heavy lifter will be too large to operate from current and programmed amphibious shipping. We may have a use for it, but in more of a logistical role as a possible KC-130J replacement - we still need the CH-53K for tactical heavy lift. |
We have to start now if we're going to have new CH-53Ks on the flight line ready for tasking when we start parking the Echoes. |