Sikorsky signs Black Hawk maintenance contract with Australian Defence Force

Sikorsky Aircraft Australia Limited has announced the signing of a four-year agreement with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) for ongoing logistics and engineering support for Australia's fleet of Black Hawk (S-70A) and Seahawk (S-70B) helicopters.

Valued at more than $120 million, with six annual renewable options, the contract is a follow-on agreement to the current standing offer, which is expiring after an eight-year term.

Sikorsky Aircraft Australia does business as Sikorsky Helitech, a Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) company based in Brisbane, Queensland.

‘Brisbane is emerging as the hub for helicopter and aviation maintenance in Australia, and we remain committed to servicing the rotary support needs of our armed forces,’ George Cheetham, managing director of Sikorsky Helitech, said in a statement.

‘For the last 25 years, Sikorsky's Black Hawk and Seahawk helicopters have played a crucial role as part of the ADF. Our ability to offer in-country OEM expertise will further improve the operational readiness of the fleet and enhance our government's ability to successfully execute a variety of key missions.’

The performance-based nature of the contract is designed to help increase the fleet's overall annual flying rate while maintaining and controlling costs, the company said.

Sikorsky Helitech will provide repair and overhaul management services, as well as customer service support, including management of maintenance and logistics elements such as freight, acquisition of spares, and replacement of repairable components. Additionally, the contract provides for engineering, technical, and field service support, as well as publication updates.


Source: Shephard Rotorhub News - 20 July 2012

Photo: The Australian S-70A Black Hawk Helicopter. (Photo by Shephard)


(20.07.2012)