Sikorsky announced on 6 November 2026 that the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) will receive the next-generation S-92A+ helicopter for VVIP transport. The contract is for four helicopters.
The S-92A+ is being purchased under South Korea’s Presidential Helicopter II programme, with first delivery due to occur in 2031. The deal is reportedly worth approximately KRW873 billion (US$ 610 million).
In fact, this latest model will replace three S-92 helicopters obtained in 2007 that the ROKAF uses for the same VVIP transportation purpose.
Sikorsky noted that Korea Aviation Engineering & Maintenance Service (KAEMS), which is a subsidiary of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), will perform in-country mission equipment completion for the new S-92A+ helicopters before they are delivered to the ROKAF.
Special mission equipment will be installed, plus KAEMS will offer sustainment support, critical spare parts and field service representation.
Wonik Lee, South Korea country executive for Lockheed Martin, said, “We’re deeply honoured that the S-92A+ has been selected as the Republic of Korea’s Presidential helicopter. Building on the ROKAF’s long-term experience operating the S-92A, we’re confident the S-92A+ will continue supporting this critical mission with the highest standards of safety and reliability.”
Lee added, “The S-92 platform’s shared heritage in presidential transport across the Republic of Korea, the United States and other nations makes this selection especially meaningful. Together with Korean aerospace partner KAEMS’ participation in the programme, this milestone reflects Lockheed Martin’s longstanding commitment to the ROK-US alliance, national defence and defence industry cooperation.”
The next-generation S-92A+ features new GE Aerospace CT7-8A6 engines, a new phase IV main gearbox with an auxiliary lubrication system, and an increased payload or fuel capacity of 544kg to enhance performance.
Sikorsky said it “is ramping up S-92A+ production at its facilities in Stratford, Connecticut and Owego, New York, with capacity to produce up to twelve aircraft annually”.
The Korea Coast Guard and National Fire Agency also use the S-92 platform at present.
Sikorsky noted that the worldwide S-92 fleet – totalling more than 300 helicopters across 28 countries – has accumulated more than 2.6 million flight hours, and has achieved an availability rate exceeding 90%. Key missions include VVIP transport, search and rescue and offshore energy.
In the guise of the US Marine Corps’ VH-92A Patriot, the S-92 has long served as the US presidential helicopter too.
South Korea’s military has a long association with Sikorsky helicopters, a relationship spanning more than 70 years. The ROK Armed Forces operate a significant number of Black Hawk and Seahawk helicopters.
by Gordon Arthur, Abu Dhabi
