Aircraft Will Be Tasked With Search And Rescue Missions

China's Ministry of Transport's (MOT) Rescue and Salvage Bureau has signed a contract for the supply of four Sikorsky S-76D search and rescue helicopters, with an option for another four next year, to further enhance MOT's maritime search and rescue capabilities, Sikorsky Aircraft announced Tuesday from the Heli-Expo industry show.

The S-76D helicopter is the newest product from Sikorsky Aircraft. The FAA awarded Type Certification of the S-76D model in October 2012, and the helicopter continues its envelope expansion as the first models move through final modifications for customer deliveries in early 2013. China's MOT first introduced Sikorsky S-76 search and rescue helicopters in 2000, and this is the fourth contract it has awarded Sikorsky for the S-76 series of helicopters. When these four aircraft are delivered, MOT will operate a fleet of 12 S-76 search and rescue helicopters of various versions, which have formed the backbone of China's aerial search and rescue capabilities for maritime operations.

"The continuous selection by MOT of Sikorsky's S-76 SAR helicopters among various bidding models clearly illustrates the Chinese government's firm trust and confidence in Sikorsky helicopters," said Robert Kokorda, Sikorsky's Vice President of Sales & Marketing. "The fact that MOT chose to be one of the launch customers of the S-76D helicopter demonstrates its satisfaction with Sikorsky's products and service. We are committed to our customers and will continue to support China's maritime search and rescue capabilities by delivering the best new performer for the mission, the S-76D."

Designed for safety, reliability and efficiency, the S-76D helicopter's standard equipment features are all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades; an advanced THALES integrated avionics system and autopilot; health and usage monitoring system, and active vibration control. The S-76D is powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada's compact and light-weight PW210S, which delivers the best in class power-to-weight ratio and fuel burn with excellent payload and range benefits. Rotor Ice Protection System for all-weather capability will be available as an option.

(S-76D image from file)

FMI: www.sikorsky.com