The Shanghai Little Eagle Science & Technology Company Limited (SLEC) and the Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation of the United States has decided to set up China's first helicopter joint-venture company.
The joint venture, Shanghai Sikorsky Helicopter Company, will develop a new type of light helicopters mainly to meet China's domestic demands, according to a MOU signed between the two sides in Beijing on Friday.
"The enormous potential of the Chinese market for light civil helicopters is self-evident. China's rapidly growing economy will create transportation opportunities for which the helicopter is uniquely suited," said Dean C. Borgman, president of Sikorsky.
"I hope that the cooperation between our two sides will fulfill the vacancy in China and realize the dreams of several generations, " said Teng Wei, SLEC chairman.
As one of the world leader in helicopter design, manufacturing and services, Sikorsky helicopters are widely used in coastal search-and-rescue work, and for offshore oil exploitation.
SLEC is a newly established high-tech company specialized in developing practical, economical, safe and reliable helicopters for the Chinese market.
(Xinhua News Agency 09/24/2001)
