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plus another six in the build process. Several international customers are also pursuing the introduction of FIREHAWK on a global scale, and we are in the process of achieving FAA certification to extend its service into commercial markets.
“ Building on the FIREHAWK’ s success, we’ re developing a similar system for the Airbus Helicopters Super Puma airframe,” she reveals.“ System and flight testing is underway, and full certification in the form of a‘ Supplemental Type Certificate’ will extend the reach of this standard category helicopter into aerial firefighting markets in 2026.”
With the severity and frequency of wildfires escalating at an alarming rate across the globe, United Rotorcraft is preparing to meet increased demand.“ Surreal and heartbreaking imagery of wildfires has led to a high level of public support for government agencies serving this cause,” Jeanette shares.“ As we experience increased demand, we’ ve introduced several innovations to enhance the FIREHAWK platform, including a unique retractable snorkel to pump water into the belly tank while the aircraft hovers over a water source. This enhances operational safety and allows the aircraft to fly at high speeds during firefighting operations, which ultimately results in a higher volume of water released to combat the fire. Whenever we think about innovation or investment, it’ s paramount that we capture the voice of the customer to ensure our products save lives and protect the environment.
“ It’ s impossible to imagine the feeling of these crews working under devastating conditions and risking their lives to save others, and our medical crews face similar challenges, as most accidents occur during poor environmental conditions. Every minute is crucial to saving lives for both firefighting and medical crews. These crews are truly inspirational and we’ re proud to play a role in providing the tools they need to help them succeed in every mission.”
Turning to United Rotorcraft’ s additional markets, Jeanette continues:“ We also design, manufacture, certify, and support custom Helicopter Emergency Medical Service( HEMS) interiors for a wide range of rotorcraft, including models from Bell, Airbus, Sikorsky, MD Helicopters, and Leonardo. Designed to support critical care during transport, these interiors offer advanced life support capabilities with integrated liquid and gaseous oxygen systems.
“ In the defense sector, we design and install multiple mission-ready medical interior systems. Our Black Hawk Medical Interior for the HH-60, installed directly on the Sikorsky production line in Stratford, Connecticut,
Our aerospace and defense capabilities have evolved significantly over time
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