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| Sikorsky S-61 (File Photo) Wiki Info |
LIMA, Malaysia - Sikorsky Aerospace Services today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with AIROD Sdn. Bhd. (AIROD) of Malaysia and Aviation Design Centre Sdn. Bhd. (ADC) to explore aircraft maintenance and support opportunities for Sikorsky’s S-61/H-3 platforms including the most recent variant, the S-61T™ helicopter. AIROD performs maintenance, repair and overhaul services for various commercial and military aircraft. Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).
“This MOU represents the first step in discussing potential support capabilities for the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s S-61 platform. It is our strategic objective to provide customized solutions to a wide range of customers with complex fleet requirements,” said Samir Mehta, SAS Vice-President & Chief Operating Officer.
The S-61 helicopter has a 50-year history of reliably performing missions for the U.S. and foreign militaries. The upgraded S-61 can be outfitted to meet a wide variety of requirements and provides superior value for a mid-size, multi-mission helicopter. As Sikorsky’s launch customer, the U.S. State Department entered into a five-year agreement with the option to purchase up to 110 upgraded S-61 aircraft for passenger and cargo transport missions in support of its worldwide operations. Building on the legacy as one of the most dependable aircraft in the aerospace industry, SAS initiated the S-61 Upgrade Program in early 2010. While pursuing other global opportunities, SAS is currently in contract discussions with potential commercial and military customers throughout Europe and Asia.
“AIROD is pleased to explore collaboration directly with the OEM, and we look forward to working closely with SAS in the support of S-61 aircraft,” said Tan Sri Dato’ Ahmad Johan, Chairman, AIROD Sdn. Bhd.
“We are very pleased to sign this MOU with both SAS and AIROD and to discuss support opportunities regarding Sikorsky’s S-61 Upgrade Program. This opportunity aligns with our objective to advance ADC’s aerospace capabilities,” said Major General Dato’ Ir. Ibrahim Bahari, Chief Executive Office, ADC.
Aviation Design Centre Sdn. Bhd. (ADC) was established in 1997 with the aim of sustaining the growth of the aviation industry and promoting advanced aerospace technology in Malaysia. ADC is currently an ISO 9001:2008 certified company and also complies with the Department of Civil Aviation Malaysia (DCAM) and other Regulatory Airworthiness requirements.
AIROD, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Aerospace & Defence Industries Sdn. Bhd. (NADI), was established in 1976 primarily to embark on “self-reliance” as a defense strategy and to spearhead the development of the aerospace industry in Malaysia. Today, AIROD is a leading MRO and modification center with world-class facilities to support various fixed and rotary wing aircraft for both civil and military aircraft market.
Sikorsky Aerospace Services, a Sikorsky company, provides comprehensive support to rotary and fixed wing operators worldwide. It offers its military and commercial customers a full portfolio of aftermarket support services, including material distribution, MRO, aircraft modifications and life-cycle support. Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corporation, based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide.