Sikorsky Aircraft , the Stratford-based helicopter manufacturer, has been awarded a nearly $11 billion contract with the U.S. Navy in a major win for the state.

The Connecticut helicopter manufacturer, a Lockheed Martin company, received a $10.8 billion contract this week from the U.S. Navy to produce up to 99 CH-53K King Stallion helicopters for the U.S. Marine Corps over five years, according to the company.

The CH-53K is the most powerful heavy-lift helicopter in the U.S. military and is designed to transport Marines, heavy equipment and supplies from Naval ships to shore in support of global operations, according to the U.S. Navy . The CH-53K, which can carry up to 27,000 pounds, is the replacement for the CH-53E.

“This award reflects trust and confidence in Sikorsky to deliv

See Full Page