Las Vegas, Nevada - China�s Ministry of Transport�s (MOT) Rescue and Salvage Bureau has signed a contract for the supply of four Sikorsky S-76D search and rescue helicopters, with an option for another four next year, to further enhance MOT�s maritime search and rescue capabilities, Sikorsky Aircraft announced today from the Heli-Expo industry show. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.
The S-76D helicopter is the newest product from Sikorsky Aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded Type Certification of the S-76D model in October 2012, and the helicopter continues its envelope expansion as the first models move through final modifications for customer deliveries in early 2013.
China�s MOT first introduced Sikorsky S-76 search and rescue helicopters in 2000, and this is the fourth contract it has awarded Sikorsky for the S-76� series of helicopters. When these four aircraft are delivered, MOT will operate a fleet of 12 S-76 search and rescue helicopters of various versions, which have formed the backbone of China�s aerial search and rescue capabilities for maritime operations.
�The continuous selection by MOT of Sikorsky�s S-76 SAR helicopters among various bidding models clearly illustrates the Chinese government�s firm trust and confidence in Sikorsky helicopters,� said Robert Kokorda, Sikorsky�s Vice President of Sales & Marketing. �The fact that MOT chose to be one of the launch customers of the S-76D helicopter demonstrates its satisfaction with Sikorsky�s products and service. We are committed to our customers and will continue to support China�s maritime search and rescue capabilities by delivering the best new performer for the mission, the S-76D.�
Designed for safety, reliability and efficiency, the S-76D helicopter�s standard equipment features are all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades; an advanced THALES integrated avionics system and autopilot; health and usage monitoring system, and active vibration control. The S-76D is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada�s compact and light-weight PW210S, which delivers the best in class power-to-weight ratio and fuel burn with excellent payload and range benefits. Rotor Ice Protection System for all-weather capability will be available as an option.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. The company�s mission statement reflects its long commitment to safety and innovation: �We pioneer flight solutions that bring people home everywhere � every time�.� United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.
