Cherokee Nation Industries, the aerospace and manufacturing division of Cherokee Nation Businesses, was recently awarded a $2.5 million contract by Sikorsky Global Helicopter in support of the S-333 aircraft, one of the most cost-efficient light turbine helicopters in the industry.

“Advanced manufacturing in the aerospace industry is a core industry for Oklahoma success and the Cherokee Nation plays an important role in that success,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “Our capacity and reputation in this highly technical field continue to grow and this contract with an international leader like Sikorsky allows us to ensure aerospace manufacturing jobs remain filled in northeast Oklahoma.”

CNI is providing the frame assembly for the S-333 cockpit, as well as manufacturing the aircraft’s full instrument panel. Once completed, the units will be integrated into final assembly at Sikorsky. The one-year contract is for eleven units.

The S-333 helicopter has set the standard for light turbine powered helicopters. Its power, speed and hover performance support operational requirements for missions including law enforcement, flight training, power and pipeline patrol, and personal transportation.

“This is an important contract for CNI as it allows us to integrate our metal fabrication capability with our strength in electrical harness manufacturing,” said Chris Moody, president of Cherokee Nation Industries. “We are very appreciative of our employees who work hard each and every day to make this partnership with Sikorksy a real success story.”

Cherokee Nation Industries has a well-established reputation for excellence within the aerospace and defense industry. The company has been recognized by many industry leaders for its commitment to quality and its dedication to the advancement of its field and has maintained its Gold Supplier status with Sikorsky for the past 3 years.

CNI was established in 1969 to serve as the economic and workforce arm for the Cherokee Nation. The tribal enterprise specializes in aerospace and defense manufacturing, telecommunications and distribution services. The company has offices in Stilwell, Tahlequah, Pryor and Tulsa. CNI is a Cherokee Nation company.

About Cherokee Nation Businesses

Cherokee Nation Businesses is the tribally owned holding company of the Cherokee Nation, the largest Indian Nation in the United States. The Cherokee Nation and its businesses employ 9,000 people. CNB owns companies in the gaming, hospitality, information technology, personnel services, distribution, manufacturing, telecommunications, environmental services and security and defense industries. For more information, please visit http://www.cherokeenationbusinesses.com.