Photo courtesy of Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company.
Air Industries Group, a leading manufacturer of precision components and assemblies for large aerospace and defense prime contractors, secured a long-term contract valued at more than $33 million to manufacture and supply complex components for the CH-53K King Stallion helicopter program. The seven-year agreement strengthens Air Industries’ pivotal role in supporting one of the U.S. Department of Defense’s most important procurement programs.
The CH-53K helicopter is the latest and most advanced iteration of the CH-53 series of helicopters. The aircraft plays a critical role in deploying and supporting troops in island and coastal environments. As the US Military – particularly the Marine Corps – focuses on enhancing readiness for potential conflicts, the CH-53K program stands as one of the Department of Defense’s highest-priority initiatives.
“This contract marks a significant milestone for our company. We have an impeccable record of proudly producing military aircraft parts for over 80 years, and this contract is a testament to our legacy of excellence, and our unwavering commitment to quality,” says Lou Melluzzo, Chief Executive Officer of Air Industries Group. “We're honored to be a trusted partner increasing production to meet the Department of Defense’s build-rate for CH-53K helicopters.”
“Over the past two years, we have been developing and refining the manufacturing plans for these components,” says Melluzzo. “This contract will enable us to quickly and significantly ramp up production. The anticipated increase in production and deliveries is expected to increase revenue and enhance profitability by increasing manufacturing hours and absorbing overhead costs. We will be investing in several pieces of new equipment necessary to manufacture the projected volume of product. These investments will create additional capacity and increase efficiency and preserve the capacity to accommodate additional organic growth. As part of our forward-looking business strategy, we remain committed to competing for and securing contracts that support profitable growth. All components under this agreement will be manufactured at our Sterling Engineering Division in Connecticut. The continued investment in Connecticut will ensure that we keep ahead of customer demands and create a state-of-the-art facility.”
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