Aviation News – Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has been chosen to supply four S-92A+ helicopters to the Republic of Korea Air Force for the Presidential Helicopter II program, securing a vital modernization contract that strengthens bilateral defense ties and ensures elite transport capabilities for South Korean leadership.
The selection covers a total of four helicopters, though Lockheed Martin has opted not to disclose the specific contract value or the precise delivery schedule. South Korea has allocated approximately 873 billion won (around $643 million) to the broader procurement initiative, according to local financial and defense reports. This extensive program runs through 2031, which is when the Republic of Korea Air Force anticipates beginning the phased replacement of its aging presidential fleet. Industry analysts note that this overall budget encompasses comprehensive infrastructure and program costs, distinguishing it from the direct value of the Sikorsky contract itself.
The Republic of Korea Air Force has a well-established history with the manufacturer, having operated three standard S-92 helicopters for presidential transport duties since 2007. Under the new procurement agreement, local defense cooperation remains a priority; Korea Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Service, a subsidiary of Korea Aerospace Industries, will execute in-country mission equipment completion for three of the four acquired aircraft. Furthermore, the package incorporates specialized mission equipment, spare parts, and dedicated field service support to ensure operational readiness.
Technically, the S-92A+ represents an advanced variant of the proven commercial platform, introducing upgraded engines and a Phase IV main gearbox that significantly enhance overall aircraft performance. These engineering enhancements deliver increased payload and fuel capacity, providing greater mission flexibility, all-weather reliability, and a quiet, spacious cabin designed for executive transport. The platform shares structural lineage with elite military variants, such as the U.S. Marine Corps’ VH-92A Patriot, giving it high operational credibility for demanding head-of-state missions.
“We are deeply honored that the S-92A+ has been selected as the Republic of Korea’s presidential helicopter,” stated Wonik Lee, South Korea country executive for Lockheed Martin. “Building on the Republic of Korea Air Force’s long-term experience operating the S-92A, we are confident the S-92A+ will continue supporting this critical mission with the highest standards of safety and reliability.”
Looking forward, the integration of these advanced aircraft will cement the operational continuity of South Korea’s executive transport wing while deepening industrial cooperation between local defense contractors and American aerospace suppliers. Sikorsky is currently scaling up production capacity for the S-92A+ across its facilities in Stratford, Connecticut, and Owego, New York, to meet rising international demand.
