Sikorsky, and Safran Helicopter Engines have announced the signing of an agreement to jointly explore areas of cooperation in existing and emerging vertical lift platforms at the Farnborough International Airshow.
The agreement, signed by Rich Benton, vice president and general manager of Sikorsky, and Cédric Goubet, president of Safran Helicopter Engines, sets out a framework to expand the relationship which began with the work on the S-76 more than 40 years ago and paves the way for collaboration on power and propulsion technologies for Sikorsky’s next-generation aircraft.
With the aim of shortening design cycle times, improving proposal turn times and ultimately, deliver improved service to customers, the companies have started to identify opportunities for their collaboration including new and existing rotary wing platforms and unmanned aerial systems.
“This is a great example of Lockheed Martin’s commitment to partnering with the European industry to enhance the systems we provide that deliver high performance, reliable mission capabilities,” said Benton. “When we collaborate across industry from day one, we empower our customers with the speed of decision-making and the confidence that the final aircraft will meet performance, safety and schedule requirements.”
“We are particularly pleased to have signed this agreement with Sikorsky. Our two companies share a particularly strong history, and our engines have powered several of their helicopters, including notably the S-76. There are still new chapters to be written,” said Goubet. “As the world leader in helicopter propulsion and pioneer of hybrid-electric propulsion, our products and services would provide an unrivalled competitive advantage for Sikorsky’s future helicopters.”
Image: Safran
