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Troy Facility Completes S-61 Airframe Modernization For State Department By Bill Goldston |
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May 24, 2012 - Sikorsky Aircraft’s Troy, Alabama,
facility announced today it has completed the structural
modernization of its first S-61T airframe, which will
now undergo completion at Carson Helicopters for
eventual delivery to the U.S. State Department for
diplomatic service in Afghanistan.
The State Department signed an agreement in 2010 to
purchase up to 110 modernized S-61 aircraft that
Sikorsky is refurbishing under its S-61T Program,
managed by its aftermarket business Sikorsky Aerospace
Services.
The program includes the upgrade and installation of composite main rotor blades, state-of-the-art glass cockpit, modular wiring harness, and modern survivability and force protection enhancements all of which dramatically improve aircraft capability and supportability. |
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These enhancements result in an aircraft with improved safety,
and 15 percent greater performance with a lower operating cost.
The number of aircraft the State Department purchases will
depend upon need and availability of government funding.
“With its rugged endurance, spaciousness and lift capabilities,
the Sikorsky S-61 helicopter has proven to be a dependable,
multi-mission aircraft and provides a capable solution for our
customers looking for a utility aircraft with a legacy of
strength and reliability. Our S-61 helicopter is the best value
proposition in the industry,” said John Johnson, S-61 Program
Director, Sikorsky Aerospace Services.
Sikorsky Aerospace Services launched the program in 2010 with
Carson Helicopters, and so far has delivered 14 modernized S-61
aircraft to the State Department.
The S-61 helicopter has long been acclaimed as an industry
workhorse. For more than 50 years, the aircraft have reliably
and safely performed missions for U.S. and foreign allied
militaries. The latest airframe first entered service as an
SH-3D aircraft with the U.S. Navy in November 1966 and primarily
performed antisubmarine warfare.
“Our workforce here in Troy is highly skilled and
understands the importance of the work we do in support of
our nation and military allies,” said facility General
Manager Jason Lambert. “Completion of this first modernized
airframe represents a big milestone for us. Our team is
extremely proud of our ability to utilize world class lean
manufacturing techniques to create capacity for this
important program.”
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