Sikorsky Aircraft has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Government of Turkey for 12 new S-70B SEAHAWK helicopters plus an option for five additional helicopters. First deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2008.

Sikorsky previously delivered eight S-70B SEAHAWK helicopters to Turkey and its Land Forces also operate more than 100 S-70A BLACK HAWK helicopters.

"We are delighted that Turkey has selected the SEAHAWK for this vital mission," said Joseph Gigantelli, Sikorsky Regional Vice President of Worldwide Sales. "The SEAHAWK is the most modern and capable anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface unit warfare (ASuW) helicopter in the world."

The S-70B helicopter is an international derivative of the U.S. Navy SH-60B SEAHAWK. The S-70B has a fully integrated glass cockpit with smart multifunction liquid crystal displays and a mission management system. Its flexible mission package includes dipping sonar, ESM, FLIR, multi-mode radar, ASE, and Penguin and Hellfire missiles. Multi-mission capable, the S-70B can perform Search and Rescue (SAR), Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC), surveillance, Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP), and utility missions.

Other international SEAHAWK customers include Australia, Greece, Japan, Spain and Thailand. Sikorsky is also under contract to deliver six S-70B SEAHAWK helicopters to Singapore beginning in 2008.

FMI: www.sikorsky.com