Image: Lockheed Martin
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed an agreement to explore joint cooperation on current and future vertical lift platforms. Rich Benton, vice president and general manager of Sikorsky, and Cédric Goubet, president of Safran Helicopter Engines, signed the deal at the Farnborough International Airshow, as per a recent press statement.
Deepening a Decades-Long Partnership
The agreement extends a relationship stretching back 40 years, built on the Sikorsky S-76 helicopter programme. Safran has delivered more than 1,230 engines for the platform, accumulating almost 10 million flight hours. The new pact will focus on power and propulsion technologies for Sikorsky’s next-generation aircraft, spanning both rotary wing platforms and unmanned aerial systems.
Faster Design Cycles, Broader Reach
Both companies expect the collaboration to accelerate design cycles and shorten proposal turnaround times. This should deliver faster, higher-performance solutions to commercial and defence customers worldwide. Benton commented that the agreement reflects Lockheed Martin’s commitment to partnering with European industry to strengthen the capabilities it delivers to customers. He added that early-stage collaboration gives customers greater confidence in meeting performance, safety and schedule requirements.
Goubet commented that Safran was pleased to formalise the agreement, citing the companies’ shared history powering Sikorsky helicopters, including the S-76. He added that Safran’s position as a leader in helicopter propulsion, and pioneer of hybrid-electric systems, could offer a strong competitive advantage for Sikorsky’s future aircraft.
Next Steps
The companies have already begun identifying specific opportunities, targeting both existing and emerging rotary wing platforms alongside unmanned systems, according to the statement.
Read more on Lockheed Martin’s website














