Interesting choice of helicopter. This goes back to the idea of trying to be more cost effective by upgrading proven helicopters as opposed to buying brand new and more expensive helicopters. Hell, the first flight of the S-61 was in 1959, so this is definitely an old war horse.
The other piece of news that everyone is waiting on is wether or not the DoD will loan State the Blackhawk helicopters and MRAPs it is requesting? With the purchase of these S-61 T’s, I am wondering if DoS is wanting a faster helicopter like the Blackhawk for QRF or rescue type operations? Who knows, and I will post that information when it comes up. Below I also posted the job ads for pilots and technicians with Presidential Airways. –Matt
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The Sikorsky S-61T Triton helicopter.
New S-61T Helos for the US State Department
20-Sep-2010
First 2 accepted; Another 11 ordered. (Sept 20/10)
In February 2010, Sikorsky announced an indefinite delivery/ indefinite quantity agreement with the US Department of State to purchase up to 110 modernized S-61T Sea King helicopters, for “passenger and cargo transport missions in support of its worldwide operations.” The State Department regularly leases helicopters for this purpose; as one example, the helicopter that spirited Rep. Alan Grayson [D-FL] out of Niger during the 2010 coup was flown by Blackwater/Xe’s Presidential Airways.
Because of the current state of helicopter support in Afghanistan, the role of private contractors to fill the gaps has been growing. The initial S-61T delivery order has been followed by more… and Sikorsky is pointedly touting the S-61Ts as an alternative to leased machines.
Story here.
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U.S. State Department Orders 11 More Upgraded S-61 Helicopters for Use in
September 20, 2010
Sikorsky Aerospace Services today announced the U.S. State Department has ordered 11 additional upgraded S-61TM utility helicopters for use in Iraq and Afghanistan. Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).
Earlier this year, the State Department entered into a five-year indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract for up to 110 upgraded S-61 aircraft for passenger and cargo transport missions in support of its worldwide operations. Under the IDIQ agreement, the first four aircraft purchased in February are currently in completion and are scheduled for deployment in Afghanistan this fall.
“Sikorsky’s upgraded S-61 helicopter provides a capable solution for any customer looking to procure a utility aircraft with a proven record of endurance and reliability. Our S-61 helicopter is the best value proposition in the industry,” said David Adler, president of Sikorsky Aerospace Services.
“Increasing the U.S. State Department’s current fleet to 15 S-61 aircraft marks a significant milestone for the Sikorsky S-61 program,” added Anthony Serksnas, director, S-61 Programs.
The S-61 helicopter is known as an industry workhorse, and for more than 50 years has reliably and safely performed missions for U.S. and foreign allied militaries. The upgraded S-61 helicopter incorporates key components including composite main rotor blades (CMRB), a state-of-the-art glass cockpit and modular wiring harness – all of which dramatically improve aircraft supportability. Additional features have been incorporated to reduce pilot fatigue and maintenance requirements for increased safety.
An open IDIQ purchase agreement serves as the contracting vehicle for any U.S. Government agency to purchase upgraded S-61 aircraft. The first delivery of the 11 upgraded S-61 helicopters for Iraq and Afghanistan is scheduled to occur in mid-2011.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture and service. Its Sikorsky Aerospace Services business designs and applies advanced logistics and supply chain solutions for commercial rotary, military rotary and fixed wing operators. 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 worldwide.
This release contains forward-looking statements regarding the future procurement of aircraft. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to changes in government procurement priorities and practices, budget plans or availability of funding or in the number of aircraft to be built; challenges in the design, development, production and support of advanced technologies; as well as other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in United Technologies Corporation’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings.
Story here.
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U.S. State Department to Purchase Sikorsky S-61TTM Helicopters for Use in Afghanistan
February 21, 2010
Sikorsky Aerospace Services announced today at Heli-Expo that the U.S. State Department has entered into an IDIQ (indefinite delivery-indefinite quantity) agreement to purchase up to 110 modernized S-61TM aircraft for passenger and cargo transport missions in support of its worldwide operations. Delivery of the first four modernized S-61™ aircraft will support missions for the U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan. Sikorsky Aerospace Services (SAS) is the aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).
The S-61 helicopters are being delivered as part of the Sikorsky S-61TTM Program – a comprehensive modernization program to upgrade existing S-61/H-3 aircraft to increase performance in high/hot operating conditions. The S-61 helicopter is known as the workhorse of the industry and, for more than 50 years, has reliably and safely performed missions in U.S. and foreign allied militaries. The five-year purchase agreement for the S-61T helicopters will add to the U.S. State Department’s worldwide fleet.
“With its rugged endurance, spaciousness and lift capabilities, the Sikorsky S-61 helicopter continues to be one of the most dependable aircraft in the aerospace industry. Its outstanding and durable performance history has given impetus to the S-61T Modernization Program, which builds upon that proud legacy,” said David Adler, president of Sikorsky Aerospace Services.
Sikorsky and Pennsylvania-based Carson Helicopters Inc. have launched an exclusive joint upgrade program. The S-61T Modernization Program incorporates key upgrades that include composite main rotor blades, a state-of-the-art glass cockpit and modular wiring harness – all of which dramatically improve aircraft supportability. The S-61T helicopter also has been equipped with 1,200 pounds of added lift capability and enhanced speed capacity. Additional features have been incorporated to reduce pilot fatigue and reduced maintenance requirements for increased safety.
Providing an alternative to the Pentagon’s current purchase and use of Russian helicopters, Sikorsky’s American-made modernized S-61 aircraft is mission-ready now for deployment to Afghanistan and the surrounding regions.
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.
Story here.
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Careers at Presidential Airways here.
Pilots and Technicians for S-61
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FBO announcement here.
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Video of the S61 T here.
And so it seems the usetrs to take into consideration the capabilities and limitations of the S-61 at altitudes and temps typical in Afghanistan. That along with the weapons and armor installed of these aircraft resulted in them being unable to perform their intended mission i.e. passenger movement. I'm sure the S-61 is a fine aircraft but it was a poor choice for the intended mission.
Comment by James — Wednesday, November 30, 2011 @ 3:44 AM
Too, Late, The S61n’s failed miserable, State department bought them for 15 million each, sold them for as little as 900k, Then didn’t learn a thing, went with the S61T, spent basically the same amount. Even though the aircraft are well equipped to do the mission, The leadership, basically all Military pilots. Seemed to continue to not understand weight and basic aeronautical principals. Continued to add weight to these aircraft to such a degree that they no longer perform for the intended missions.
Comment by Joe — Tuesday, July 19, 2016 @ 1:04 PM