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.