Article Posted on : - Jul 05, 2010

The S-70i Black Hawk helicopter during the flight test. Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. photo.

FLORIDA (BNS): The S-70i, Sikorsky's latest version of the venerable H-60 Black Hawk helicopter has successfully completed its first flight on June 1 at the company's Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, Florida.

The newest Black Hawk is being developed as a Polish-built export variant meant for customers around the world, according to a news release by Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.

"S-70i Black Hawk helicopter has been designed and developed by an international team and is ready for the world market," Debra A. Zampano, S-70i Senior Program Manager, International Military Programs, was quoted as saying in the release.

This new international variant utilises a global supply chain and is the first Black Hawk helicopter ever to be assembled in Europe.

"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," added Michael Ambrose, Vice President, International Military Programs.

The helicopter will be built by Sikorsky's Poland-based subsidiary, PZL Mielic, and will be the first version of the Black Hawk to be built in Europe.