Supply Base Selection Begins for International BLACK HAWK

(Santiago, Chile, March 31, 2008) -- Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. has begun establishing the supply chain for the S-70i International BLACK HAWK(tm) Helicopter program, and is developing plans for the aircraft's final assembly and hangar operations at the company's PZL Mielec facility.

Sikorsky is currently evaluating several companies from various countries to take part in the project. The company expects to receive approval of the manufacturing license in late 2008.

The S-70i International BLACK HAWK Helicopter will be produced with global partners and delivered from outside the United States. It will provide multi-mission, 10-ton utility lift capability at a price comparable to helicopters in the 6-to-8 ton class.

"Sikorsky Aircraft has been diligently developing this program since we first announced it in 2006 and we are beginning to see initial milestones on the horizon that clearly signify the International BLACK HAWK Helicopter is becoming a reality," said Sikorsky President Jeffrey P. Pino. "From the beginning, we considered this program to be a key component of our long-range strategic objective to globalize operations and expand our supply base with qualified, cost-competitive manufacturers and service providers from across the world. Today, we can say that a BLACK HAWK helicopter for the international market is a viable, real program."

The S-70i International BLACK HAWK Helicopter will be designed with a modular platform that can be configured to meet specific customer requirements. Common elements will include a digital cockpit with four-axis advanced flight control systems, coupled flight director, active vibration controls, and dual pilot IFR. "This platform will accommodate customer demand with an affordable, capable, and adaptable aircraft," Pino said.

Source : Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.

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