The Marine Corps’ 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, stationed in New River, North Carolina, has taken possession of the new CH-53K King Stallion, the most powerful heavy-lift helicopter in the United States military.

“Today our Marine Corps got a little stronger. It is only appropriate that 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, and in particular Marine Corps Air Station New River, would be the first to receive the newest land and sea-based heavy helicopter because this is the home of the Marine Corps’ assault support,” Maj. Gen Michael Cederholm, commanding general of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing explained in a Marine Corps statement covering the event.

“Placing the CH-53K King Stallion into the hands of our warfighters will ensure we capitalize on the unique qualities and characteristics of the 53K, and will allow 2nd MAW to continue to provide the best aviation support to the Marine Air-Ground Task Force right now, and well into our future.”