Rotorcraft
Sikorsky Flies HH-60W as CH-53K Gets Production Award
The HH-60W is to replace the Air Force's aging HH-60G Pave Hawk fleet.
The HH-60W is seen during its May 17 first flight at West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)
The HH-60W is seen during its May 17 first flight at West Palm Beach, Florida. (Photo: Lockheed Martin)

On May 17 Sikorsky flew its HH-60W combat rescue helicopter for the first time. During the initial flight from Lockheed Martin's West Palm Beach, Florida facility, the HH-60W’s hover control and low-speed characteristics were checked in a 1.2-hour sortie.

“This achievement is yet another vital step towards a low-rate initial production decision and getting this much-needed aircraft and its advanced capabilities to the warfighter," said Dana Fiatarone, vice president, Sikorsky Army & Air Force Systems. "We are very pleased with the results of today's flight and look forward to a productive and informative flight-test program."