OWEGO, NY (CortacaToday) – Lockheed Martin has completed the delivery of the presidential helicopter fleet.
The Owego-based location of the global defense company announced on Monday the delivery of the 23rd and final VH-92A Sikorsky aircraft to the U.S. Marine Corps.
“The most recognizable helicopter in the world – made in Tioga County, New York, by the Southern Tier’s powerhouse workforce at Lockheed Martin – is officially on its way,” said Senator Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.
The VH92-A, best-in-class for safety and reliability, will transport the President, Vice President, and other officials for years to come. It was modified at facilities in Owego and Stratford, Connecticut based on government-defined requirements. Built to increase performance and payload over past models, it will provide enhanced coordination systems and communications capabilities.
“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,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant and Binghamton University Alum Lieutenant General Bradford Gering. “The VH-92A Patriot brings increased capabilities for this no-fail mission supporting the Commander-in-Chief around the world.”
Lockheed Martin Sikorsky helicopters have transported every President since the Eisenhower Administration in 1957.
“I am proud to have fought for and led the effort to secure critical federal investments year after year to keep Owego’s Lockheed Martin workforce doing what they do best: making the most sophisticated and secure helicopters in the world, while keeping our military service members and government officials safe and keeping these critical jobs in the Southern Tier,” said Senator Chuck Schumer. “Every time the president of the United States takes off in one of these helicopters, everyone in the Southern Tier can smile knowing it was their community that made it happen.”
