Sikorsky Selected to Deliver the S-92A+™ Presidential Helicopter to Republic of Korea Air Force
Next-generation variant builds on nearly two decades of proven service with enhanced performance and mission flexibility
STRATFORD, Conn., Nov. 6, 2026. Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has been selected to deliver the S-92A+™ helicopter, the next-generation variant of its S-92® helicopter, to the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) for its Presidential Helicopter II program.
Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky’s partnership with the Republic of Korea spans more than 70 years, including Black Hawk, Seahawk and S-92 helicopter programs. Since taking delivery of three S-92 helicopters in 2007, the ROKAF has relied on the platform for nearly two decades of safe and reliable presidential transport. S-92 helicopters have also supported Korea Coast Guard search and rescue operations, along with firefighting and other lifesaving missions for South Korea’s National 119 Rescue Headquarters, part of the country’s National Fire Agency.
For the new presidential fleet, Korea Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Service (KAEMS), a subsidiary of Korea Aerospace Industries, will perform in-country mission equipment completion for three of the four S-92A+ helicopters. The contract also includes additional special mission equipment and sustainment support, including critical spare parts and field service representation.
“We are deeply honored that the S-92A+ has been selected as the Republic of Korea’s presidential helicopter. Building on the Republic of Korea Air Force’s long-term experience operating the S-92A, we are confident the S-92A+ will continue supporting this critical mission with the highest standards of safety and reliability,” said Wonik Lee, South Korea Country Executive for Lockheed Martin. “The S-92 platform’s shared heritage in presidential transport across the Republic of Korea, the United States and other nations makes this selection especially meaningful. Together with Korean aerospace partner KAEMS’ participation in the program, this milestone reflects Lockheed Martin’s longstanding commitment to the ROK-U.S. alliance, national defense and defense industry cooperation.”
S-92A+ Advances Proven Aircraft
For head-of-state and VIP transport, the S-92 combines best-in-class safety and reliability with long-range, all-weather capability and a spacious, quiet cabin tailored for executive travel. The S-92A+ builds on these proven strengths with upgraded engines, a new Phase IV main gearbox and increased payload or fuel capacity to enhance performance and mission flexibility.
With more than 2.6 million fleet flight hours, an average lifetime availability rate of over 90% and more than 300 aircraft delivered across 28 countries, the S-92 supports head-of-state and VIP transport, offshore energy and search and rescue missions. The platform also serves as the foundation for the U.S. Marine Corps’ VH-92A Patriot® presidential helicopter, continuing Sikorsky’s legacy of transporting every U.S. president since 1957.
Sikorsky is ramping up S-92A+ production at its facilities in Stratford, Connecticut, and Owego, New York, with capacity to produce up to 12 aircraft annually. These efforts reflect Sikorsky’s continued commitment to modernizing the S-92 platform and supporting its global customer fleet today and into the future.
For more information about the S-92 helicopter, visit http://www.lockheedmartin.com/S-92
