Lockheed Martin’s [LMT] Sikorsky Aircraft has received approval from the Mexican government to operate its S-92 helicopters in the country for all production configurations, including offshore oil and gas transportation and search & rescue missions.

Mexico’s Directorate General of Civil Aeronautics delivered the Offshore and Utility Type Certificate for the S-92 on Nov. 6 after a three year effort to finalize the use of the Sikorsky helicopter.

“This moves us another step forward in our overall Latin America strategy,” said Adam Schierholz, vice president of Sikorsky’s Latin America operations, in a statement. “The region has long had faith in Sikorsky products, specifically the Black Hawk.  It’s a natural progression, as oil markets expand in Mexico and Colombia, that the S-92 would start to play a prominent role in that sector.”

The S-92 received certification from the Colombian government in November 2016.

“Sikorsky has been excited to watch the evolution of the offshore oil and gas industry in Mexico,” said David Martin, vice president of Sikorski’s oil & gas vision, in a statement. “As the industry expands into new territory, safe and reliable offshore transportation will ensure they remain on schedule and on budget.  With this new certification of the S-92 aircraft, operators and oil and gas companies can select a true heavy helicopter that has the proven reliability and safety to support their success.”