Defense-Technology News: DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Sikorsky Aerospace Services Delivers First Upgraded S-61TM Helicopter To U.S. State Department

DTN News - DEFENSE NEWS: Sikorsky Aerospace Services Delivers First Upgraded S-61TM Helicopter To U.S. State Department

Source: DTN News - - This article compiled by Roger Smith from reliable sources Sikorsky

(NSI News Source Info) SHELTON, Conn., - December 3, 2010: Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) today announced the delivery of the first upgraded S-61™ helicopter to the U.S. State Department. With its history of reliability and safety, the Sikorsky S-61 helicopter is capable of performing a wide range of critical missions including medical evacuation, passenger and logistics transportation.

SAS is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX - News).

"This delivery marks another significant milestone for the Sikorsky S-61 helicopter program and speaks to the continued success of the aircraft's upgrade program launched earlier this year. The S-61 helicopter continues to be one of the most dependable and best value aircraft in the aerospace industry," said David Adler, SAS president.

Earlier this year, the U.S. State Department entered into an IDIQ (indefinite delivery-indefinite quantity) agreement to purchase up to 110 upgraded S-61 helicopters for passenger and cargo transport missions in support of worldwide operations. To date, purchase orders for 17 aircraft have been placed by the DoS for use in locations throughout the world. The S-61 helicopter has established a reputation as a reliable and mission-capable helicopter.

The upgrade program incorporates advancements in state-of-the-art technology that launches this long-proven aircraft into the twenty-first century. The upgraded S-61 helicopter includes a full array of system upgrades for enhanced mission performance. Composite main rotor blades (CMRB) provide improved functionality in hot/high conditions. Additional features have been incorporated to reduce pilot fatigue and maintenance requirements for increased safety. The upgraded S-61 aircraft offers its operators an affordable purchase price, economical operating costs and intrinsic resale value.

Four aircraft are to be delivered in 2010, with deliveries of the next 13 upgraded S-61 helicopters scheduled throughout 2011.

Sikorsky Aerospace Services, a Sikorsky company, provides comprehensive support to rotary and fixed wing operators around the world. It offers its military and commercial customers a full portfolio of support services, including material distribution, maintenance, overhaul & repair, aircraft modifications and life-cycle support. Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.