The Government of the Republic of Korea (ROK) has selected the S-92A+ as its next Presidential helicopter Sikorsky has announced. The Presidential Helicopter II programme calls for four S92A+ to be outfitted as airborne command post and presidential transport and builds on the the success of the the current fleet of three S-92As that have been in service with the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) in the role since 2007.
Completion of the S-92A+s, which have a number of upgrades compared with the A model including upgraded engines, a new Phase IV main gearbox and increased payload or fuel capacity as mission dictate, will be carried out in ROK by Korea Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Service (KAEMS), a subsidiary of Korea Aerospace Industries.
For the new presidential fleet, Korea Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Service (KAEMS), a subsidiary of Korea Aerospace Industries, will perform in-country mission equipment completion for the S-92A+ helicopters. The contract also includes additional special mission equipment and sustainment support, including critical spare parts and field service representation.
“We are deeply honoured that the S-92A+ has been selected as the Republic of Korea’s presidential helicopter. 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,” said Wonik Lee, South Korea country executive for Lockheed Martin. “The S-92 platform’s shared heritage in presidential transport across the Republic of Korea, the United States and other nations makes this selection especially meaningful. Together with Korean aerospace partner KAEMS’ participation in the program, this milestone reflects Lockheed Martin’s longstanding commitment to the ROK-U.S. alliance, national defence and defence industry cooperation.”
Sikorsky announced earlier this year that had resumed production of the heavy twin at its facility in in Stratford with final assembly in Owego and in the face of interest from government and civil operators is planning to ramp up production of the type to up to 12 a year.
Image: Sikorsky
