Sikorsky Aerospace Services, the Shelton-based aftermarket service arm of Sikorsky Aircraft, has picked Texas-based S-TEC/ Cobhman Commercial systems to do the advanced avionics work on the S-61 modernization program for the State Department.
Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Hartford-based United Technologies, won a contract to provide up to 110 S-61s to the State Department in 2010. The re-worked helicopters will be used to transport passengers and cargo worldwide.
“Sikorsky’s S-61 helicopter has a 50-year legacy of reliably performing missions for the U.S. and foreign allied militaries. With its rugged endurance, spaciousness, and lift capabilities, the modernized S-61 aircraft can be outfitted to meet a wide variety of requirements. It provides superior value for a mid-size multi-mission helicopter,” said John Johnson, Director, Commercial Customer Support and S-61 Programs. “We are pleased to work with Cobham, which has a solid reputation for innovation and system performance in harsh conditions.”
Decommissioned legacy S-61 aircraft are being converted into a modernized S-61T fleet that incorporate a full array of system upgrades for enhanced mission performance. The IDIQ serves as a contracting vehicle for any U.S. Government agency to purchase the modernized S-61T variant. The integrated avionics package features large-format synthetic vision flight displays, advanced flight management capability, integrated Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System (EICAS), dual digital audio/radio control display units, dual VHF navigation, and communication radios.
“Cobham Commercial Systems is excited to be part of Sikorsky’s modernization of the S-61 helicopter” said Roger J. Smith, General Manager, Cobham Commercial Systems, Mineral Wells. “We are proud to have been selected to enhance the mission performance of Sikorsky’s S-61T aircraft with Cobham’s intuitive 21st century cockpit.”
