Other Helo Development

The Other Helicopter Development program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0604212N, is a Navy research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused primarily on the CH/MH-53 helicopter series. This program supports the ongoing modernization and sustainment of the H-53 fleet, which serves as the Marine Corps' premier heavy lift helicopter and the Navy's only operational airborne mine sweeping platform. The overarching goal is to extend the service life and operational relevance of these aircraft until the full transition to the newer CH-53K model is complete.

Within this program, efforts are dedicated to developing and qualifying new and replacement components for the H-53 platform. The objectives include addressing obsolescence by replacing outdated systems, improving safety and survivability, and enhancing avionics and cargo handling capabilities. These efforts are justified by the need to maintain fleet readiness and reduce long-term operational and support costs, especially as the legacy aircraft age and face increasing sustainment challenges.

A significant portion of the FY 2026 budget is allocated to survivability analysis and related engineering milestones. This includes trade studies, risk reduction activities, design and development work, modeling and simulation, and integration and testing of interim modifications. The survivability upgrades are aimed at increasing situational awareness for pilots and improving the aircraft's ability to operate in contested environments. The program also requires a comprehensive Electromagnetic Vulnerability assessment for any affected or modified systems to ensure continued mission effectiveness.

Avionics and safety upgrades within the program focus on identifying and implementing improvements to cockpit systems, avionics, and other airframe-specific technologies. These upgrades are intended to enhance operational safety, reliability, and supportability. The program leverages manned flight simulators and modeling tools to develop, install, and test these modifications while maintaining the original system footprint and functionality, minimizing disruption to existing operations.

Project management and engineering support are provided through contracts with organizations such as NAWC AD (Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division) at Patuxent River, MD, and Sikorsky in Stratford, CT. These agencies are responsible for systems engineering, design, development, software updates, and government engineering support. The acquisition strategy is non-ACAT (Acquisition Category), allowing for flexible management of smaller-scale upgrades and risk reduction efforts.

Test and evaluation activities are conducted to validate the effectiveness of new components and modifications before production and fleet-wide implementation. Developmental Test & Evaluation (DT&E) is performed by various contractors and government entities, ensuring that changes meet operational requirements and safety standards. The program also includes funding for travel and management services to support these activities.