The first unit, which is intended for international military use, is expected to be ready in 2010. “The startup of the production line in Poland is a defining moment for the S-70i helicopter program,” Bob Kokorda, Sikorsky’s vice president for corporate strategy and synergy, said at a press conference. “This platform will accommodate customer demand with an affordable, capable, and adaptable aircraft that remains true to the Black Hawk helicopter’s legendary combat-proven heritage. Now, this proven, dependable aircraft will extend its capabilities to customers around the world, bringing robust performance and the latest in rotorcraft technology,” he added.
PZL Mielec also produces cabins for Black Hawk helicopters. To date four cabins have been completed, three of which have been sent to the UH-60M helicopter assembly line at Sikorsky’s main manufacturing facility in the US. The fourth cabin has been incorporated into the soon-to-be-completed S-70i.
During a briefing in Kielce, Mr Kokorda underscored that the designation of PZL Mielec as a final assembly center for its latest helicopter project testified to the role that the Polish company plays in Sikorsky’s CEE expansion plans.
Janusz Zakręcki, CEO of PZL Mielec, said that since his company had been acquired in March 2007, Sikorsky had delivered on each of its commitments. “The company has invested millions of dollars in fixed assets, environmental remediation, human resources training and transfer of technical expertise. In addition, the company has initiated a broad social package for PZL Mielec employees,” he listed.
Since the acquisition, employment at PZL Mielec has increased by 22 percent to 1,800 full-time personnel. The plant also continues to manufacture its M28 Skytruck and M28B Bryza planes.
Marcin Poznań
