Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, and Safran Helicopter Engines announced today the signing of an agreement to jointly explore areas of cooperation in existing and emerging vertical lift platforms at the Farnborough International Airshow.
The agreement, signed by Rich Benton, vice president and general manager of Sikorsky, and Cédric Goubet, president of Safran Helicopter Engines, deepens a decadeslong relationship and paves the way for new collaboration on power and propulsion technologies for Sikorsky’s next-generation aircraft. This will accelerate design cycles, shorten proposal turnaround times and deliver faster, higher performance solutions to customers in both commercial and defense sectors worldwide.
Rich Benton, vice president and general manager of Sikorsky said: This is a great example of Lockheed Martin's commitment to partnering with the European industry to enhance the systems we provide that deliver high performance, reliable mission capabilities. When we collaborate across industry from day one, we empower our customers with the speed of decision-making and the confidence that the final aircraft will meet performance, safety and schedule requirements.
Cédric Goubet, Safran Helicopter Engines CEO said: We are particularly pleased to have signed this agreement with Sikorsky. Our two companies share a particularly strong history, and our engines have powered several of their helicopters, including notably the S-76. There are still new chapters to be written. As the world leader in helicopter propulsion and pioneer of hybrid-electric propulsion, our products and services would provide an unrivalled competitive advantage for Sikorsky’s future helicopters.
The new agreement builds on 40 years of collaboration that powers the Sikorsky S-76®helicopter, with more than 1,230 Safran engines delivered, and nearly 10 million flight hours accumulated.
The companies have started to identify opportunities for their collaboration including new and existing rotary wing platforms and unmanned aerial systems.
Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with more than 110,000 employees and revenue of 31.3 billion euros in 2025, and holds, alone or in partnership, global or regional leadership positions in its core markets.
Safran is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange and is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices.
Safran Helicopter Engines is the world’s leading manufacturer of helicopter engines, with more than 75,000 produced since being founded. It offers the widest range of helicopter turboshafts in the world and has more than 2,500 customers in 155 countries.
Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at lockheedmartin.com.
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