In a historic event, PZL Mielec, a Lockheed Martin company, has successfully delivered the first four cutting-edge S-70M Black Hawk utility helicopters to Romania's Ministry of Internal Affairs. This milestone marks a significant leap in Romania's aviation capabilities, with two more aircraft scheduled to arrive by the end of 2023.
1. Strategic Acquisition and Missions:
Procured as part of the European Union's VISION 2020 project, these new-generation Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters are poised to undertake a range of critical missions. These include maritime and land search and rescue, firefighting, transport, and medical emergency support. The strategic acquisition aligns with Romania's commitment to enhancing its operational capacities for various emergency scenarios.
2. European HeliPol Project:
As part of the European HeliPol project, an additional Black Hawk is set for delivery before the end of the year. This specific aircraft is allocated for the Romanian Police, further bolstering the country's ability to respond effectively to diverse operational needs.
3. Framework Agreement and Future Deliveries:
The helicopters form part of a comprehensive framework agreement, paving the way for up to 12 Polish-built S-70M Black Hawks to be supplied to Romania over the next four years. This substantial commitment underscores the long-term partnership between PZL Mielec and Romania, ensuring the continuous advancement of the country's aviation capabilities.
4. Versatility and Readiness:
Dr. Dennis Goege, Vice President for Central and Eastern Europe at Lockheed Martin, emphasized the historical significance of the Black Hawk helicopters' arrival in Romania. Acknowledging the Black Hawk as the most capable and dependable helicopter, he highlighted its versatility in conducting vital lifesaving and firefighting missions, offering increased readiness for responding to emergency situations.
5. Global Family of Black Hawk Operators:
Romania now joins the global family of Black Hawk operators, becoming the 11th country and 18th customer for these helicopters built by PZL Mielec, Poland's largest exporter of aerospace equipment. This collaborative effort further strengthens international cooperation in the aerospace industry.
6. Innovations in Medical Support:
The cabin of both the land and maritime variant Black Hawks will feature a medical suite designed and provided by DELTAMED, a Cluj-Napoca-based integrator of emergency vehicles outfitted for patient care and rescue. This innovation enhances the helicopters' capabilities in medical transport and emergency response.
7. Advanced Features of S-70 Black Hawk:
The multi-role S-70 Black Hawk boasts advanced features, including digital avionics, powerful GE engines, high-strength airframe structures, and composite wide chord rotor blades. These elements contribute to increased situational awareness, survivability, and overall performance in demanding long-range and high-altitude missions.
8. About PZL Mielec and Lockheed Martin:
PZL Mielec, formerly WSK-Mielec, is Poland's largest aerospace manufacturer, acquired by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in 2007. Lockheed Martin Corporation, headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, is a global security and aerospace company at the forefront of research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of advanced technology systems.
PZL Mielec's delivery of state-of-the-art S-70M Black Hawk helicopters marks a transformative moment for Romania's Ministry of Internal Affairs, enhancing its capabilities across various critical missions. This strategic partnership signifies a commitment to advancing aviation technology and strengthening emergency response capabilities on a global scale.
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