HeliHub.com editor note – we have already run the DoD official notice on 9th September – see Military Sealift Command awards AAR $76M vertrep contract – what follows is AAR’s press release

AAR (NYSE: AIR) announced today that it has been awarded a contract from Military Sealift Command (MSC), to provide airlift support for U.S. Navy ships. The contract has a one-year initial base period, three one-year options and an additional 11-month option with an estimated total value of approximately $77 million.

The vertical replenishment (VERTREP) contract calls for the renewal of 4 helicopters, personnel, and operational and technical support services that the Company currently provides in the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans and the Arabian Gulf. AAR was selected from four competitive bids submitted.

“This award reflects the Military Sealift Command’s continuing confidence in AAR’s transportation and logistics capabilities and we are extremely proud to support the U.S. Navy’s operations at sea,” said David P. Storch, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, AAR CORP.

AAR’s Airlift Group provides expeditionary airlift services in austere environments and performs specialized aircraft modifications in support of national defense, security and humanitarian relief operations. Under current contracts, the Company provides airlift for the Department of Defense in three regions around the world, using both fixed-wing aircraft and rotary-wing aircraft to transport personnel, supplies and mail over land and at sea.

AAR is a leading provider of value-added products and services to the worldwide aerospace and government and defense industries. With facilities and sales locations around the world, AAR uses its close-to-the-customer business model to serve aviation and government/defense customers through four operating segments: Aviation Supply Chain; Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul; Structures and Systems; and Government and Defense Services. More information can be found atwww.aarcorp.com.