STRATFORD, Connecticut – Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX) will display an S-70iâ„¢ BLACK HAWK helicopter outside the UTC Chalet during the Paris Air Show. The international event marks the first time the new variant of Sikorsky’s proven multi-mission utility helicopter will be displayed to the world market.

“There is strong worldwide demand for a medium-lift helicopter that can perform multiple missions, such as humanitarian relief, VIP transport, search and rescue, medical evacuation, command and control, and armed patrol,” said Mick Maurer, president, Sikorsky Military Systems. “As a member of the proven ‘Hawk’ family, the S-70i helicopter provides excellent value for international operators who want a reliable airframe, powerful engines and digital avionics for today’s missions.”

Standard advanced features of the S-70i helicopter include a fully integrated digital cockpit, a dual digital automatic flight control system and coupled flight director, an active vibration control system, and a dual GPS/INS system with digital map.

The S-70i helicopter on display is one of six to be assembled and flight tested to date at PZL Mielec since the Polish company became part of Sikorsky in 2007. PZL Mielec plans to increase production to 15 in 2012, and 22 in 2013.

Sikorsky has invested $100 million to establish a modern production operation at the PZL Mielec facility, which, as Poland’s largest fixed-wing aircraft manufacturer also produces M28 light cargo and passenger planes. The facility employs 2,000 people.

“The leadership team and work force have seamlessly transitioned to production of the BLACK HAWK helicopter, and are now ramping up to full production quantities,” said Robert Mastronardi, S-70i senior program manager, Sikorsky Military Systems. “The attention to detail, commitment to excellence and pride in the end product are evidenced in the aircraft that are being delivered to Test Flight Operations.”

Said Janusz Zakrecki, CEO of PZL Mielec: “The work force at PZL Mielec has continued to pay meticulous attention to detail on the S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter program. In a relatively short span of time, the team has taken ownership of its mission: to produce, flight test and ultimately deliver the international variant of the world’s most battle-proven helicopter – the BLACK HAWK — for the world.”

Source and photo: Sikorsky