Saudi inks Sikorsky helicopter deal

Saudi Arabia's interior ministry said yesterday it had agreed to acquire 40 helicopters from United Technologies' Sikorsky Aircraft including 16 of its S-92(R) model.

The deal also includes 15 S-76 (R) multi-mission helicopters and nine Schweizer 434 training helicopters.

"The Middle East has become a significant region for S-92 helicopters and Sikorsky is excited about the potential for this programme becoming the model for other aviation programmes in the kingdom," said Sikorsky President Jeffrey Pino in a press release.

The ministry said it plans to use the helicopters on missions including search and rescue, fire fighting, medical services and security and traffic surveillance.

Aerospace companies are announcing orders at the Dubai Air Show which opened on Sunday and runs until Thursday.

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