Sikorsky Responds to GAO Recommendation on CSAR-X Protest

STRATFORD, Conn., Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. , responded to the GAO's decision today to recommend the Air Force reconsider its decision in the CSAR-X competition.

"We are pleased the GAO sustained Sikorsky's protest," said Sikorsky President Jeffrey Pino. "We sought to ensure the selection process accurately evaluated the characteristics and performance of our HH-92(TM) SUPERHAWK helicopter ('HH-92'). We have complete confidence that this helicopter is the best platform for the Air Force's current and future needs."

The HH-92 is a military variant of the Sikorsky S-92(TM) helicopter, the only helicopter in its size class certified to the latest U.S., Canadian and European safety standards, and is among the best, most technologically advanced helicopters in the world.

This aircraft offers the lowest lifecycle costs of any medium lift helicopter. It is engineered to reduce routine maintenance requirements by 80 percent and operating costs by 40 percent when compared with past-generation helicopters.

Another key advantage of this aircraft is its transportability. It can be prepared for deployment aboard Air Force C-5 and C-17 transport aircraft in minutes rather than the hours required for other helicopters. Additionally, the HH-92 includes quick-change interiors for diverse missions to increase its flexibility to meet worldwide taskings.

Today the S-92(TM) is operating in multi-mission roles for Sikorsky customers around the world. "If selected, this proven helicopter will provide our nation's Air Force unsurpassed capability and value well into the future," Pino said.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Connecticut, USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacturing, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Connecticut, USA, provides a broad range of high- technology products and support services to the aerospace and building industries.

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