Final presidential helicopter delivered to USMC
Presidential Helicopters Program Office (PMA-274) and the US Marine Corps (USMC) recently accepted delivery of the final VH-92A helicopter, built by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company. The achievement signifies the completion of the program of record to deliver 23 new presidential helicopters in support of the executive lift mission.
The total inventory of 23 VH-92A aircraft will consist of 21 operational and two test aircraft. This quantity allows for aircraft to be ready to support the executive lift mission, undergo various levels of maintenance, and lifecycle upgrades, and provide assets for pilot/aircrew training.
“This exceptional team has successfully completed the program of record for the VH-92A within budget and schedule,” said Brigadier General David Walsh, program executive officer for air anti-submarine warfare, assault, and special mission programs, in a NAVAIR new release. “This helicopter not only embodies the hard work and dedication of those responsible for building and delivering the aircraft, but it will remain a recognizable patriotic asset known around the globe for safety, security, and reliability.”
67-year history of Marines providing presidential helicopter transport
The acceptance by the USMC of the 23rd and final next-generation VH-92A presidential helicopter built by Sikorsky marks a significant milestone for the company whose aircraft have flown every US president since 1957.
“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 around the world,” said Lieutenant General Bradford Gering, Deputy Commandant for Aviation. “Sikorsky’s contribution to Marine Aviation has enabled your United States Marine Corps to be a ready and lethal fighting force.”
In May 2014, PMA-274, with approval from the Navy, awarded Sikorsky a contract to build the next presidential helicopter, the VH-92A, a derivative of the commercial S-92.
The new presidential helicopter was built to increase performance and payload over the VH-3D and VH-60N. It will provide enhanced crew coordination systems and communications capabilities in addition to improving availability and maintainability.
Transition from the VH-3D and VH-60N aircraft to the VH-92A
The Marine Corps works with the White House Military Office, PMA-274, and Marine Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1) to ensure the conditions are set for a successful transition from the current in-service VH-3D and VH-60N aircraft to the VH-92A. Currently, there are 10 VH-3D’s, six VH-60N’s, and 9 VH-92A’s that support various missions assigned to HMX-1.
“Between the program staff and artisans within Sikorsky and PMA-274, we have the best and brightest. These great American’s are experts at their craft and put their all into this platform,” said Colonel Alex Ramthun, PMA-274 program manager. “Not only have we delivered increased performance and reduced maintenance costs and time over the current fleet of presidential helicopters, but we have also delivered the next phase of Marine One helicopters. Knowing those who step aboard any of the 21 VH-92A will have absolute top-notch execution, maintenance, and service for the life of the aircraft makes me proud to be part of this amazing team.”
Richard Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager, said in a company news release;
“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. This milestone is a credit to our valued and long-lasting partnership with the Marine Corps as we provide a highly-tailored solution for the Marine Corps’ unique, critical mission.”
VH-92A Patriot
The VH-92A Patriot is in the midst of a phased plan to ensure a smooth, safe, and timely transition from the legacy VH-3D and VH-60N aircraft.
The VH-92A helicopter will transport the President and Vice President of the United States and other officials. Sikorsky brings unmatched experience and a proven track record to this mission having flown every president since 1957. The VH-92A, also called a “White Top” due to its notable white and green livery, will continue this legacy for decades to come.
The VH-92A program ensures long-term affordability by utilizing the FAA-certified Sikorsky S-92 aircraft, which is best-in-class for safety and reliability. The S-92 aircraft was modified at Sikorsky facilities in Owego, New York, and Stratford, Connecticut for the VH-92A mission based on government-defined requirements.
Photo by Owen Hoffmann / Lockheed Martin and U.S. Navy
