ASESA And Sikorsky Sign MoU To Explore Assembly Of Black Hawk Helicopters

Mexican helicopter service provider ASESA (Aeroservicios Especializados, S.A. de C.V.) and Sikorsky Aircraft Corp have signed a MoU to jointly explore assembly and service opportunities in support of Black Hawk helicopters. Steve Estill, Sikorsky Vice President for Mexico, said, "This agreement will establish a working relationship with ASESA in preparation for expected growth in Mexico, which could include helicopter assembly, maintenance, repair and overhaul work". Currently, the Mexican Air Force, the Mexican Navy and Federal Police operate 21 UH-60L and UH-60M Black Hawk aircraft acquired since the mid-1990s. Fifteen of those aircraft have been acquired since 2007. Sikorsky expects the Federal Police to take delivery of another two UH-60M Black Hawk aircraft in early 2012. In September 2011, the State of Jalisco acquired an S-70i Black Hawk helicopter, the first state government in Mexico to acquire the newest variant of the world's most employed military utility aircraft. Humberto Lobo, president of ASESA, said, “We have a strong interest in Sikorsky products both as it relates to our off shore oil transport business as well as our aircraft services businesses. This action improves and enhances the program to develop the Mexican Aeronautical Industry as a strategic provider of products and services with a world class company".