Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, has named Česká letecká servisní (ČLS) as its first authorised distribution centre for Black Hawk helicopter parts in the European Union.

ČLS, a Czech-based aviation support provider, was selected after a rigorous review and evaluation process to confirm it meets Sikorsky’s standards for quality, processes, and policies.

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According to Lockheed Martin, the company fulfils the criteria set for all authorised Sikorsky distribution centres.

The appointment aims to improve component availability for more than 150 Black Hawk helicopters currently operating across EU member states.

ČLS will stock Sikorsky-recommended spare parts and facilitate rapid delivery to operators across Europe.

The company will support a growing fleet that includes S-70, UH-60M, and UH-60A/L helicopters, which are said to be widely used for emergency response, security operations, and military missions throughout the region.

ČLS CEO Monika Kowalczykova said: “Being appointed an authorised Sikorsky distribution centre for the European Union countries marks a significant milestone for ČLS and proves our expertise in modernisations and after- sales support of helicopter platforms.”

The latest announcement expands Sikorsky’s sustainment network, which includes distribution centres across South America, the Middle East and Asia.

In addition to serving as the distribution centre, ČLS is collaborating with Sikorsky, United Rotorcraft, and Poland-based PZL Mielec on the S-70 FIREHAWK helicopter programme for the Czech Republic.

The S-70 Black Hawk variant is produced at PZL Mielec in Poland and supported by regional suppliers, reinforcing the helicopter’s supply chain within Europe, according to Sikorsky.

The Black Hawk helicopter family is used in a variety of EU missions, including humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, tactical air mobility, and joint-force operations.

According to information provided by Lockheed Martin, Sikorsky has produced over 5,000 HAWK aircraft for use by 36 countries globally.

Recently, the US State Department approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Norway for 21 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, valued at an estimated $2.3bn, contributing to the model’s growing presence in Europe.

Sikorsky vice president and general manager Rich Benton said: “As the Hawk helicopter fleet grows in Europe, we are committed to supporting operator readiness for emergency response, security operations and more.

“By working alongside ČLS, we are strengthening our service footprint in the European Union and ensuring timely parts delivery for Black Hawk helicopters.”