PERKASIE, Pennsylvania – Sikorsky Aerospace Services today announced that the U.S. State Department has accepted the first two modernized S-61^TM aircraft that will support missions for the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan. Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).

The U.S. State Department has entered into a five-year indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) purchase agreement for up to 110 modernized S-61 aircraft for passenger and cargo transport missions in support of its worldwide operations. The accepted aircraft will now undergo completion by SAS with specialized mission equipment to meet U.S. State Department requirements before being deployed this fall.

“The U.S. State Department’s acceptance of these first two modernized S-61 aircraft marks a major milestone in the launch of the S-61T^TM modernization program. The S-61T helicopter will meet the needs of customers worldwide, and we are excited about how much interest this aircraft has generated,” said David Adler, President of Sikorsky Aerospace Services. “As the State Department pursues worldwide aviation missions, we remain fully committed to supporting their helicopter requirements.”

The modernized S-61T helicopter will incorporate key upgrades that include composite main rotor blades (CMRB), modular wiring harness, and an optional state-of-the-art glass cockpit – all of which dramatically improve aircraft supportability. The S-61T helicopter modernization will also add lift capability as well as enhance speed. Additional features will be incorporated to reduce pilot fatigue and reduced maintenance requirements for increased safety.

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.