Sikorsky Aircraft [UTX] Australia Limited yesterday said it signed an approximately $120 million four-year agreement with the Australian Defense Force (ADF) for ongoing logistics and engineering support for Australia’s fleet of Black Hawk (S-70A™) and Sea Hawk® (S-70B™) helicopters.
The agreement has six annual renewable options and is a follow-on agreement to the current work, which expires after an eight-year term.
Aircraft Australia Limited does business as Sikorsky Helitech, a Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) company based in Brisbane, Australia.
“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,” said George Cheetham, managing director of Sikorsky Helitech. “For the last twenty-five years, Sikorsky’s Black Hawk and Sea Hawk 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 contract is designed to help increase the fleet’s overall annual flying rate while maintaining and controlling costs. 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.
“During the 2011 flood disasters in Australia, our BLACK HAWK aircraft were critical in search and rescue missions and relief provisions,” said Australia’s Defense Minister Stephen Smith. “Every flight hour requires many more ground hours of repair and maintenance. This contract will ensure local jobs and investment in Brisbane and Queensland.”