The S-92A+ represents the latest development in the S-92 helicopter family. According to the company, the new model is designed to support long-range missions across multiple sectors, including government transport, offshore energy operations and search and rescue.
Rich Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager, said the program reflects the company’s efforts to modernize its helicopter fleet. He stated: “The S-92A+ helicopter is another example of how we are modernizing the fleet and transforming for the future, and we are building in surge capacity to meet expected demand.”
Benton also highlighted the aircraft’s continued popularity among operators performing demanding missions. He said: “The S-92 remains the aircraft of choice for Head of State, offshore energy and search and rescue operators who want the highest available flight-time helicopter to perform long-range missions in any weather condition.”
A 14th country has recently ordered two S-92A+ helicopters for head-of-state transport. Sikorsky plans to assemble those aircraft along with three additional helicopters as part of the initial production run.
The company said it has the capacity to produce up to 12 S-92A+ aircraft per year. These helicopters could be used for a variety of roles including personnel transport, cargo operations, offshore energy support, firefighting and military missions.
Production work will be divided between Sikorsky facilities in Connecticut and New York. Skilled technicians in Stratford will manufacture dynamic components such as the main gearbox, rotor blades and drivetrains.
Assembly operations will take place in Owego, New York. The facility has previously delivered 23 U.S. presidential helicopters based on the S-92A platform.
Sikorsky delivered two S-92A helicopters to head-of-state customers in Asia and the Middle East in 2025. The company said these deliveries demonstrate continued global demand for the platform.
The upgraded S-92A+ model incorporates several design improvements aimed at enhancing safety, performance and operational flexibility. Sikorsky said it plans to standardize all future production aircraft around the S-92A+ configuration.
One of the main upgrades is the new Phase IV main gearbox. The gearbox, currently completing the final 200 hours of endurance testing, is designed to operate for at least 6,000 flight hours before requiring overhaul.
The system also includes an auxiliary lubrication capability. This feature allows the helicopter to safely complete a flight even if primary oil pressure is lost.
The aircraft will also include more powerful GE CT7-8A6 engines. Increased engine power allows the helicopter to maintain performance across wider temperature ranges and in high-altitude environments.
Combined with airframe strengthening, the upgraded engines increase the helicopter’s maximum gross weight to 27,700 pounds. This provides up to 1,200 additional pounds of payload or fuel capacity.
The improved configuration also expands the helicopter’s external lift capability. This allows the aircraft to carry heavier sling loads during specialized missions.
Sikorsky said the S-92A+ upgrades will also be available as retrofit kits for existing S-92A helicopters. Operators will have the option to upgrade engines along with other new features.
