It looks like the workers over at
Enstrom Helicopter Corp. aren't going to have to worry if there are any jobs on the horizon anytime soon--their company has been very busy securing contracts that guarantee production for the next few years.
The company, which is based in Menominee, signed a contract recently to deliver 28 TH-480B helicopters to the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force. The helicopters will be used as the JGSD's primary training helicopter, replacing the Kawasaki-built OH-6 models currently being used. The production of the helicopters is expected to last into 2014 with deliveries to Japan expected to start in June. Eight helicopters are expected to be delivered by year's end, followed by 10 in 2013 and 10 in 2014.
"This contract award affirms the fact that the TH-480B is the right choice of helicopters to train the next generation of JGSDF pilots," says Jerry Mullins, Enstrom’s CEO and president. "The fact that the first aircraft delivered went through extensive testing and evaluation, and the JGSDF was extremely pleased with the results, is testimony to the product and support structure that has been put into place in Japan."
The sale is the largest single sale in this history of the company. In addition to the new contract with the Japanese, Enstrom is currently working on an existing, 16-aircraft contract with the Royal Thai Army.
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Jerry Mullins, Enstrom Helicopter Corp.
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