Kaman Air Vehicles, a division of Kaman Corporation, announced the receipt of a signed purchase agreement for a K-MAX medium-to-heavy lift helicopter. Delivery of this aircraft is expected in the first quarter of 2021 and follows the delivery of two aircraft in the fourth quarter of 2020. There continues to be demand and interest in the capabilities of the K-MAX across multiple markets.
“We are excited for the opportunity to deliver our third K-MAX aircraft in the last two quarters. Our industry and our operators are benefiting from the cost effective repetitive lift mission capability of the K-MAX,” stated Roger Wassmuth senior director, business development. “This demand and our recent type certification in Brazil solidify the need and value proposition that K-MAX offers in the global external lift market.”
Development of the improved K-MAX Unmanned Aerial System continues, and the Optionally Piloted Vehicle module is expected to enter ground and flight test in the first half of 2021. Kaman is continuing to develop a commercial Optionally Piloted Aircraft to support its growing customer base, while working with the U.S Marine Corps on upgrading the autonomous capabilities of the unmanned K-MAX.
“Our team has done a great job assessing the global market, identifying future technologies and working with potential and existing customers to secure additional orders for our K-MAX helicopter,” said Darlene Smith, president, Kaman Air Vehicles/Precision Products Division. “We are very proud that Kaman continues to provide new K-MAX aircraft to customers worldwide.”
The K-MAX is a rugged, low-maintenance aircraft that features a counter-rotating rotor system and is optimized for repetitive external load operations. The aircraft can lift up to 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg) with unmatched performance in hot and high conditions.
