An IDF team has been taking test flights aboard Lockheed Martin’s new CH-53K in Maryland, but Boeing’s CH-47 Chinook is in the running too — and both programs could use a boost against their American critics.

“As long as we get an appropriation by the beginning of the calendar year, I think we’ll be okay,” the Army’s chief of budget planning said.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) ground forces command want an immediate replacement for the CH-53 . “It is natural that operational needs differ, but this is the task of the highest command to evaluate the needs and make a decision,” a senior Israeli defense official said.

Dan Schultz, Sikorsky president, calls the CH-53K heavy-lift helicopter an “optimally piloted” aircraft that allows ease of flying even in hellish weather conditions.

The HASC wants an independent cost estimate on the F-35 and some detail — any detail — on the plan to replace AWACS. It’s also a little curious about robot tanks.

Rebuffed by the Army and GAO in its bid to re-engine aging helicopters, ATEC has gone over their heads to Congress and asked legislators for a second chance.

Amid chatter about what aircraft will make their way to Paris, the Air Force going all in.

The Army wants to keep its options open on upgrading its heaviest cargo helicopter. Boeing is worried the window of opportunity — and its factory — will close before the Army makes up its mind.

Is the Army doing enough to sell Congress on its five-year, $57 billion modernization plan? And does that long-term effort require a long-term leader?

Good news: That’s more money than the Army thought it could get for its top priorities. Bad news: We won’t see most of it this year.