Sikorsky Aerospace Services to Perform A-to-L Upgrades on Royal Saudi Land Forces' BLACK HAWK Helicopters

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SHELTON, Conn., May 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sikorsky Aerospace Services announced today the signing of a contract with the Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Command (RSLFAC) to upgrade its fleet of BLACK HAWK helicopters from the UH-60 A model configuration to the more modern UH-60L aircraft configuration. Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).

Based on the success of the H-60 Helicopter Recapitalization and Upgrade Program on U.S. Army BLACK HAWK aircraft, the H-60 helicopter modernization program includes comprehensive fleet upgrades for Sikorsky's global customers. The Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Command (RSLFAC) A-to-L conversion plan is the second international modernization program under contract with SAS. The first program is currently under way at Chase Field Operations Center in Texas, a Sikorsky Aerospace Services facility.

The A-to-L upgrade program incorporates key improvements consisting of a T700 to T701D engine upgrade for increased power and reliability, and upgraded flight controls, avionics and instrument panel modifications. Additionally, the upgraded H-60 helicopters will be equipped with a new Aircraft Flight Control Computer (AFCC) as well as new wiring harness, high speed shaft and seal lead acid battery.

"This conversion program will modernize the current Saudi fleet and allow for better commonality and integration with its newly acquired fleet of UH-60L aircraft. As we continue to successfully transition the UH-60 BLACK HAWK helicopter through our global modernizations programs, this Saudi project serves as an important launch point in the region," said David Adler, president of Sikorsky Aerospace Services.

Sikorsky Aerospace Services provides comprehensive support for rotary and fixed wing aircraft around the world. It offers its military and commercial customers a full portfolio of support services. Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.

SOURCE Sikorsky Aerospace Services