Curtiss-Wright Controls, Inc. has received a contract from Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation to supply its ice detection and protection technology for use on the S-76Dâ„¢ rotorcraft. The initial contract is valued at $600,000, with an estimated potential over the next twenty years (the predicted life of the rotorcraft) in excess of $12 million. Under the initial contract, shipments commenced in Q1 2012.

“We are very pleased that Sikorsky has selected our technology for use on the S-76D rotorcraft,” said David Adams, Co-Chief Operating Officer of Curtiss-Wright Corporation. “Our advanced ice detection and blade de-icing systems enable the S-76D helicopter to fly in known icing conditions, significantly extending its utility and range.”

Curtiss-Wright Controls Avionics & Electronics (CWC-AE) will be supplying two separate systems used in conjunction to detect ice rate build-up and to provide blade de-icing power as needed. The Icing Severity Detection System (ISDS) will be used on the S-76D rotorcraft to determine the rate of ice buildup. When required, the Rotor Ice Protection System (RIPS) will activate the rotor blade heaters to safely de-ice the aircraft.

About the S-76D
The S-76D helicopter power and performance are enhanced by all composite main rotor blades and optimized Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S engines with dual FADEC controls. Its quiet tail rotor can reduce external acoustic signature and gain acceptance with the communities where it operates. It features a state-of-the-art integrated cockpit, increased range and the ability to launch into known icing conditions.

The Curtiss-Wright Controls CWC-AE division is manufacturing the ISDS equipment in Christchurch, UK, and the RIPS equipment in City of Industry, CA. The products are being shipped to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Stratford, CT.

About Curtiss-Wright Controls, Inc.
Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, Curtiss-Wright Controls is the Motion Control segment of Curtiss-Wright Corporation and a leading designer and manufacturer of advanced technologies for niche actuation and drive applications, integrated sensors and electronic subsystems internationally for the aerospace and defense markets.

About Curtiss-Wright Corporation
Curtiss-Wright Corporation (NYSE: CW) is an innovative engineering company that provides highly engineered, critical function products, systems and services in the areas of flow control, motion control and metal treatment to the defense, energy and commercial/industrial markets. The legacy company of Glenn Curtiss and the Wright brothers, Curtiss-Wright has a long tradition of design and manufacturing innovation along with long-standing customer relationships. The company employs approximately 8,600 people worldwide.