SHELTON, Conn., Sept. 20 (UPI) -- The U.S. State Department has ordered 11 more upgraded S-61 utility helicopters for use in Iraq and Afghanistan, Sikorsky Aerospace Services said Monday.
The first delivery of the aircraft should occur in mid-2011, the company said.
The State Department earlier this year entered into a five-year, indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract for up to 110 upgraded S-61 aircraft for passenger and cargo transport missions in support of its worldwide operations.
Under the IDIQ agreement, the first four aircraft purchased in February are in completion and are scheduled for deployment in Afghanistan this fall.
"Sikorsky's upgraded S-61 helicopter provides a capable solution for any customer looking to procure a utility aircraft with a proven record of endurance and reliability," said David Adler, president of Sikorsky Aerospace Services. "Our S-61 helicopter is the best value proposition in the industry."
The modernized S-61T helicopter will incorporate key upgrades, including composite main rotor blades, modular wiring harness and an optional state-of-the-art glass cockpit -- all of which dramatically improve aircraft supportability.
Sikorsky said the upgrades also add lift capability and enhance speed.
