West Palm Beach: The first S-70iTM BLACK HAWK helicopter has successfully completed its first flight, officially launching an international variant and the newest Sikorsky Aircraft product to follow in the legacy of the BLACK HAWK helicopter.
Aircraft 0001, the first in the new product line, was built at PZL Mielec, a Sikorsky Aircraft company in Poland. PZL Mielec has been established as the hub of the S-70i program for international customers. The successful first flight of the S-70i aircraft took place on July 1 at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center.
“Aeronautical history was made with the first flight of the S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter. This aircraft has been designed and developed by an international team and is ready for the world market,” said Debra A. Zampano, S-70i Senior Program Manager, International Military Programs.
“We weathered the challenges of any development program by collaborating with our partners in Poland and our global suppliers. The language of innovation is universal, and the success of this program is proof of that: We are celebrating a key milestone of first flight executed on time and flawlessly.”
This new international variant utilizes a global supply chain and is the first BLACK HAWK helicopter ever to be assembled in Europe.
“As Sikorsky Aircraft continues to grow internationally, we recognize the significance of this new integration of manufacturing and supply chain activities as a major leap forward for our company,” said Michael Ambrose, Vice President, International Military Programs.
“The S-70i BLACK HAWK helicopter brings together new technologies, new manufacturing capabilities, and a new design, all of which have resulted in the most advanced, tactical multi-mission helicopter that will provide reliable and safe transportation for militaries around the world.”
