January 18, 2010

STRATFORD, Connecticut – The first S-70i^TM BLACK HAWK helicopter, an international variant of the BLACK HAWK helicopter, is nearing completion on the assembly line at PZL Mielec, a Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. company in Poland. The progress of the first international BLACK HAWK variant signals the launch of a new helicopter in the Sikorsky product line. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.  

Aircraft 0001, the first S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter, was powered on for the first time a few weeks ago. Final assembly officially began on Aug. 17, 2009.

“We achieved this key program milestone through the dedication and teamwork of Sikorsky Aircraft employees and our global suppliers,” said Debra A. Zampano, S-70i Program Manager, International Military Programs, Sikorsky Military Systems. “This collaboration has illuminated our company’s commitment to this program and to extending the legacy of innovation in aviation. We are charting toward an historical event for Sikorsky Aircraft – the first international BLACK HAWK helicopter.”

To increase its presence in the international marketplace, Sikorsky designated PZL Mielec as a final assembly center for the S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter. A key competitive feature of the Polish-made S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter is that it will provide multi-mission, 10-ton utility lift capability at a price comparable to helicopters in the 6-ton to 8-ton class.

“As the first S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter becomes a completed aircraft, the employees of PZL Mielec will share in the excitement in witnessing the first S-70i BLACK HAWK aircraft come off the assembly line. It will be a moment that unites all employees in their pride in building and supporting the newest variant in a remarkable Sikorsky product line,” said Janusz Zakrecki, CEO of PZL Mielec.