Sikorsky delivers VH-92A presidential helicopter to US Marine Corps
23rd aircraft is the last of its kind
The US Marine Corps has officially accepted the 23rd and final VH-92A Patriot presidential helicopter, marking a significant achievement for Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company.
At a ceremony at Sikorsky’s facility in Owego, New York, US Lieutenant General Bradford Gering, Deputy Commandant for Aviation, said: “This delivery represents a significant milestone and new chapter in the rich, 67-year history of Marines providing helicopter transport of the President of the United States.
“The VH-92A Patriot brings increased capabilities for this no-fail mission supporting the Commander-in-Chief worldwide.”
He added that Sikorsky’s contributions have enhanced the US Marine Corps’ operational readiness and effectiveness.
The delivery of the VH-92A presidential helicopter to the US Marine Corps – on which US President Joe Biden has since flown – demonstrates the programme’s ability to design, build, and deliver the aircraft under budget and within the planned schedule.
The VH-92A, also known for its distinctive white and green livery, will continue the tradition of transporting the US president, vice president, and other high-level officials, ensuring a legacy from 1957.
Richard Benton, Sikorsky’s Vice President and General Manager, highlighted the company’s commitment to excellence: “Once again, Sikorsky’s highly-skilled employees have shown their ability to innovate, manufacture, and deliver these next-generation VH-92A presidential helicopters that will be operating worldwide in support of presidential missions well into the future.”
He also emphasised the strong partnership between Sikorsky and the US Marine Corps, which was crucial to the success of the VH-92A presidential helicopter programme.
The VH-92A programme is designed for long-term affordability and safety. It utilises the FAA-certified Sikorsky S-92 aircraft as its base. The S-92 was modified at Sikorsky’s facilities in Owego, New York, and Stratford, Connecticut, to meet specific government requirements for the VH-92A mission.
Each US presidential helicopter, known as Marine One when the president is aboard, is vital to the presidential transport fleet. It allows the president to bypass ground traffic and avoid land-based security threats.
Featured image: The 23rd and final VH-92A Patriot presidential helicopter. Credit: Owen Hoffmann
