Marine One: Sikorsky Wins $1.2B Contract for Presidential Helicopters

Graphical rendering of the next ‘Marine One’ helicopter, built on the Sikorsky S-92 platform. (Photo credit: Sikorsky)

Aircraft manufacturer Sikorsky has been awarded a $1.24 billion contract by the U.S. Navy to develop the next-generation fleet of Marine One helicopters for the President of the United States.

According to a statement, the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract calls for the company to develop, test and deliver six S-92 helicopters and two trainer simulators to the U.S. Marine Corps by late 2020.

The contract is the first phase in a process which will eventually see Sikorsky delivering a VXX Presidential Helicopter Replacement fleet totaling 21 aircraft.

“We are honored by this news and the vote of confidence in the Sikorsky team and the proven S-92 platform,” said Sikorsky President Mick Maurer. “For 57 years, our company has been trusted with the critical responsibility of building and supporting a safe and reliable helicopter fleet for the President of the United States. We are proud of our record and the bright future for our company. We stand ready to deliver the next Marine One, the world’s most advanced executive transport helicopter.”

Work on the current contract will be done at the S-92 production facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, as well as a facility in its Stratford, Connecticut headquarters, and a secure facility in Owego, New York where subcontractor Lockheed Martin will install the integrated communications and mission systems.