Jun 9 2010
Sikorsky Aerospace Services and ZF Luftfahrttechnik GmbH (ZF Aviation Technology, ZFL) today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly explore opportunities for delivering improved aftermarket support to the German armed forces and introducing the Cyclone™ multi-mission helicopter into Germany. Sikorsky Aerospace Services is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
Under the Memorandum of Understanding, Helicopter Support, Inc. (HSI), a business unit of Sikorsky Aerospace Services, and ZFL will explore, identify and discuss projects of mutual interest and collaborative efforts in connection with the concept of improved spare parts delivery and technical support for the German armed forces.
"This MOU allows us to consider the aftermarket services that could be possible through a synergistic relationship with ZFL, and we will continue to move forward to identify the ways in which our two companies can work together for our mutual success," said Samir Mehta, President, HSI.
Joseph Gigantelli, Sikorsky Vice President, European Sales, added: "As we explore the opportunities for participation with German industry, we are seeing the potential for the Cyclone helicopter to be a viable option for the German Air Force and Navy."
"Our intent is to provide Germany with the best technology that is available in-country and from around the world, and in doing so, provide a technologically superior aircraft," Gigantelli added.
The Cyclone helicopter provides multi-mission capabilities including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue. The aircraft is a derivative of the S-92® helicopter, which gets its basic design from the BLACK HAWK helicopter, a proven, rugged and durable aircraft.
"We highly value our long standing cooperation with Sikorsky Aircraft and look forward to expanding our business in a slightly different role," said Peter Tolksdorf, Director of Defense Programs, ZFL. "The MOU is another step toward strengthening our relationship with Sikorsky."