Manufacturing Today Issue - 238 July 2025 | Page 177

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ United Rotorcraft
can transport six patients from the battlefield to medical facilities. Additionally, our versatile UH-60 multi-mission system can accommodate up to four litter or ambulatory patients, or a combination of both. This system supports seamless transitions between cargo, medical, and troop transport roles without requiring removal of onboard equipment.”
United Rotorcraft’ s extensive manufacturing capabilities include vertical integration of engineering design, prototyping, fabrication, testing, and certification.“ Our aerospace and defense capabilities have evolved significantly over time,” Jeanette explains.“ What began with manual sheet metal trimming and cutting has transformed into a wide range of human and machine resources that drive us towards self-sufficiency, such as CNC machining, thermoforming, upholstery and embroidery, painting and finishing, and electrical component assembly, to name just a few.
“ Along with the introduction of new machinery like an Okuma milling center, CNC router, top-end embroidery machine, and an upgraded chem-film line for metal surface treatment, we invest in lean manufacturing through our Business Transformation team. Daily Gemba Walks throughout the facility reinforce our commitment to continuous improvement by encouraging firsthand observation, employee engagement, and process optimization.
“ On the assembly side, we’ ve integrated Manufacturing Assembly Process Systems( MAPS) into many of our production lines to ensure consistency and repeatability in every project,” she explains.“ We’ ve also invested in Dozuki, an advanced digital instruction platform in which we create detailed work guides and visual aids to support the assembly process and improve quality assurance.”
As our conversation closes, talk turns to what’ s next for both United Rotorcraft and the wider industry.“ With our deep and unparalleled understanding of the firefighting industry and our involvement with one of the largest helicopter Air Ambulance Service providers, we have a unique opportunity to leverage decades of expertise to continue providing world-class products that positively impact our clients’ overall operations,” Jeanette concludes.“ Our current focus is getting the FIREHAWK Belly Tank certified by the FAA, and getting the Super Puma Tank certified onto the market, as well as actively modernizing our HEMS Medical Interior product portfolio. Overall, our goal is to offer the most comprehensive and effective critical mission solutions to our clients and expand our global footprint across all product lines.” ■
www. unitedrotorcraft. com
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