Sikorsky and Safran Helicopter Engines have signed an agreement to jointly explore future collaboration on existing and next-generation vertical lift platforms, strengthening a long-standing partnership focused on advanced propulsion technologies for both commercial and defence aviation.
Announced at the Farnborough International Airshow 2026, the agreement was signed by Rich Benton, Vice President and General Manager of Sikorsky, and Cédric Goubet, President of Safran Helicopter Engines.
The collaboration will focus on identifying opportunities across current and emerging rotorcraft programmes, including conventional helicopters, advanced vertical lift platforms and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The companies will also evaluate new power and propulsion technologies that could support Sikorsky’s future aircraft portfolio.
By combining Sikorsky’s aircraft development expertise with Safran’s propulsion capabilities, the partnership aims to accelerate aircraft design cycles, shorten proposal timelines and deliver enhanced performance, reliability and mission readiness for customers in both the commercial and defence sectors.
The agreement builds on more than 40 years of collaboration between the two companies. Safran engines have powered the Sikorsky S-76 helicopter programme for decades, with more than 1,230 engines delivered and the global fleet accumulating nearly 10 million flight hours, demonstrating the maturity and reliability of the partnership.
Rich Benton said the collaboration reflects Lockheed Martin’s commitment to working closely with industry partners to develop advanced aviation solutions.
“This agreement demonstrates our commitment to collaborating with leading European industry partners to deliver high-performance and reliable mission capabilities. By working together from the earliest stages of aircraft development, we can accelerate decision-making and ensure future platforms meet customer expectations for performance, safety and programme delivery,” Benton said.
Cédric Goubet said the agreement marks the beginning of a new phase in the long-standing relationship between the two companies.
“We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Sikorsky. Our companies share a strong history, with Safran engines powering several Sikorsky helicopter programmes, including the S-76. As the global leader in helicopter propulsion and a pioneer in hybrid-electric propulsion technologies, we believe our expertise can provide a significant competitive advantage for Sikorsky’s future helicopter programmes,” Goubet said.
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Beyond aircraft development, the partnership also has important implications for the global rotorcraft aftermarket. Early collaboration between airframe and engine manufacturers enables the design of more integrated lifecycle support strategies, including maintenance planning, digital diagnostics, spare parts provisioning and long-term sustainment solutions. As military and commercial operators increasingly prioritise fleet availability and lower lifecycle costs, such partnerships are expected to play a critical role in shaping the next generation of MRO services for advanced vertical lift platforms.
