China's Ministry of Transport's (MOT) Rescue and Salvage Bureau signed an agreement with Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. today for four Sikorsky S-76C++™ helicopters to enhance the MOT's maritime search and rescue capabilities. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp..

MOT established China's aerial search and rescue capabilities with the introduction nearly eight years ago of two search and rescue helicopters from Sikorsky. Since their deployment, these two SAR helicopters have demonstrated their role in saving human lives. Following the successful operation of the first two helicopters, MOT acquired two more S-76C+™ SAR helicopters in 2004 for deployment across the Bohai Bay. With many successful life-saving missions, the S-76® helicopter has proven itself as a highly reliable and efficient search and rescue aircraft in China.

"This acquisition of four S-76C++ helicopters demonstrates the trust and confidence the Ministry of Transport has in Sikorsky helicopters," said Scott Pierce, Vice President for Sales, Sikorsky Asia. "The world has witnessed the rapid growth in China's facilities and capabilities for search and rescue since the country introduced the search and rescue helicopters less than a decade ago. Sikorsky is committed to work with MOT to contribute to the growth of China's maritime search and rescue capabilities."

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacturing and service. The company's mission statement reflects its long commitment to safety and innovation: "We pioneer flight solutions that bring people home everywhere … every time™." United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., USA, provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries.