Sale Could Be Finalized By The End Of The Year

Sikorsky could become a part of Lockheed Martin by the end of the year, according to Lockheed Martin CEO Marillyn Hewson.

Reuters reports that Hewson told analysts that the deal could be closed in the 4th quarter of 2015. Previously, the company had said the negotiations could extend into next year.

Hewson said that regulatory reviews in seven jurisdictions, including the U.S., have been completed. The only review still outstanding was in China, and that is expected to be finalized with no difficulty.

United Technologies confirmed with Reuters that it also expects the deal to close by the end of the year.

The two companies announced the potential sale of Sikorsky to Lockheed in July of this year for $9 billion. At the time, Hewson called acquisition of the helicopter manufacturer a "natural fit for Lockheed Martin" which "complements our broad portfolio of world-class aerospace and defense products and technologies. I’m confident this acquisition will help us extend our core business into the growing areas of helicopter production and sustainment. Together, we’ll offer a strong portfolio of helicopter solutions to our global customers and accelerate the pace of innovation and new technology development,” she said.

FMI: www.lockheedmartin.com, www.sikorsky.com