08 Maret 2011

Quickstep, Sikorsky Agree to Develop Composite Structures

08 Maret 2011

MH-60R manufacturing (photo : worldnews)

Deal is contingent on Sikorsky securing a contract for the purchase of its MH-60R helicopters under the Australian Department of Defence’s Air 9000 Phase 8 program.

Quickstep Holdings Ltd. (North Coogee, Australia) reported on March 3 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Sikorsky International Operations Inc. (Stratford, Conn., USA), aimed at enabling Quickstep to become a recognised supplier to Sikorsky’s global supply chain.

Initial focus for opportunities for Quickstep to participate in Sikorsky’s global supply chain will be on composite materials including, but not limited to, components for Sikorsky’s H60, S70 and CH-53K helicopters.

The MOU is contingent on Sikorsky securing a contract for the purchase of its MH-60R helicopters under the Australian Department of Defence’s Air 9000 Phase 8 program. Sikorsky is one of two helicopter suppliers that have tendered for the program, which is the Australian Department of Defence’s acquisition program for a new navy tactical helicopter fleet. The contract is expected to be awarded in third quarter 2011.

If Sikorsky is successful in winning this contract, the MOU is intended to lead to Quickstep becoming a participant in Sikorsky’s Australian Industry Participation Program. Under the terms of the MOU, the two companies will work together first to enable Quickstep to become a recognised supplier to Sikorsky’s global supply chain, and second to conduct joint development work aimed at preparing Quickstep’s patented composites manufacturing technology — the Quickstep Process — for use in Sikorsky supply chain work as the Quickstep Process demonstrates competitive advantage.

Managing director of Quickstep, Philippe Odouard, said the agreement represented another opportunity for Quickstep to secure additional large-scale aerospace manufacturing contracts. “Sikorsky is a major manufacturer of helicopters globally, and we are delighted to have the opportunity to work with them to join their supply chain. The potential to secure substantial contracts through the Sikorsky supply chain represents a further step for Quickstep to build its contract based business on the back of last month’s announcement of a long term agreement with Northrop Grumman for the supply of parts under the international F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program,” Odouard.

Tidak ada komentar:

Posting Komentar