Sikorsky has been selected to supply four S-92A+ helicopters to the Republic of Korea Air Force for its Presidential Helicopter II programme. The aircraft will continue the ROKAF’s presidential transport role, which it has carried out with three S-92s since 2007. The selection includes mission equipment and sustainment support, while Korea Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Service (KAEMS) will complete the mission-equipment work in South Korea. The contract value and delivery schedule were not disclosed.
The S-92A+ is an upgraded version of Sikorsky’s S-92, featuring upgraded engines and a new Phase IV main gearbox. The changes are intended to increase payload or fuel capacity and provide greater mission flexibility. Sikorsky is increasing production at its facilities in Stratford, Connecticut, and Owego, New York.
The support package includes spare parts and field service representation. KAEMS, a subsidiary of Korea Aerospace Industries, will carry out the in-country equipment integration. The ROKAF has operated its existing S-92s for nearly two decades in presidential transport duties.
Sikorsky reports that more than 300 S-92-family helicopters have been delivered across 28 countries, accumulating over 2.6 million flight hours. The company says its production capacity can reach 12 aircraft a year.