Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is initiating production of its upgraded S-92A+ heavy-lift helicopter variant at facilities in Stratford, Connecticut, and Owego, New York. The company plans to manufacture an initial batch of five aircraft, including two ordered by a 14th country for head-of-state transport and three additional units in anticipation of further orders from head-of-state and offshore-energy operators.
Manufacturing in Stratford focuses on dynamic components such as the main gearbox, rotor blades, and drivetrains. Owego handles final assembly, leveraging its experience delivering 23 U.S. presidential helicopters based on the S-92A platform. Sikorsky aims for an annual capacity of up to 12 S-92A+ aircraft to address growing demand in head-of-state transport, offshore energy, firefighting, and military operations. In 2025, the company delivered two S-92A helicopters to customers in Asia and the Middle East.
The S-92A+ incorporates the Phase IV main gearbox, constructed from aluminum rather than magnesium for improved manufacturing reliability and repairability. This gearbox features an auxiliary lubrication system that activates during primary oil pressure loss, enabling safer continued flight. It is undergoing final endurance testing, with approximately 200 hours remaining before expected FAA certification in 2026, despite prior test stand delays. Upgraded GE Aerospace CT7-8A6 engines provide enhanced power at higher altitudes and temperatures. A gross weight expansion kit increases maximum takeoff weight by 544 kg to 12,564 kg, supporting additional passengers, cargo, or fuel.
Sikorsky is standardizing all future production on the S-92A+ model to elevate safety, performance, and versatility benchmarks for long-range missions in adverse weather.