Sikorsky and Safran Pledge Increased Collaboration

Sikorsky and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed a new intention to “jointly explore areas of cooperation in existing and emerging vertical lift platforms.” Sikorsky believes the new agreement, inked on July 22, will “accelerate design cycles, shorten proposal turnaround times, and deliver faster, higher-performance solutions in both commercial and defense sectors.”

The companies stated that they have already identified specific opportunities for future work, applicable to new and existing rotary-wing platforms and uncrewed aerial systems.

The renewed commitment builds upon decades of collaboration between the Lockheed Martin subsidiary and the engine OEM. This includes 40 years of partnership on the Sikorsky S-76 helicopter, with nearly 10 million flight hours to date enabled by more than 1,230 Safran turboshaft engines delivered. However, Safran Helicopter Engines president Cédric Goubet believes that there are still “chapters to be written”—including in the emerging hybrid-electric propulsion space.