Sikorsky Aircraft has successfully completed the preliminary design review (PDR) of the VH-92A presidential helicopter replacement programme.
The company also completed the integration and performance testing of mission communications system (MCS) components and accepted the second S-92A aircraft for the programme.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Sikorsky VH-92A programme director Spencer Elani said: "Completing these three milestones on or ahead of schedule is a fantastic accomplishment.
"We are committed to executing this programme on-time and within budget.
"These achievements keep this programme moving forward."
In May 2014, the Sikorsky secured a $1.24bn engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) contract from the US Navy for 21 operational and two test aircraft to replace the existing fleet.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataThe current fleet of presidential helicopters is comprised of Sikorsky Black Hawk / Sea King models, which are 35 and 40 years old respectively.
Spanning a period of performance into late 2020, the production under the contract is expected to be completed in 2023.
Under the project, Sikorsky will use its in-production S-92 aircraft and integrate government-defined mission systems and install an executive interior.
Presidential Helicopters Program Office programme manager colonel Robert Pridgen said: "This is but one of many steps toward the replacement for our Presidential Fleet of helicopters.
I am pleased how effectively we’ve gotten out of the gate and established a solid foundation on which we’ll mature the detailed design work of this important programme."
According to Sikorsky, the PDR allowed the VH-92A team to demonstrate the preliminary design for the VH-92A aircraft, including integration of the MCS, and the supporting logistics elements.
The new development will now allow the programme to proceed into detailed design.
The VH-92A will be deployed to provide safe and reliable helicopter transportation for the President and Vice President of the US and other officials.
