The defense and security company Saab has signed a major support agreement with Sikorsky Aerospace Services regarding technical maintenance and support for Sweden's BLACK HAWK helicopters.

The support agreement is a framework agreement that establishes the manner in which Saab and Sikorsky Aerospace Services will support the Swedish Armed Forces.

The parties have agreed to the first installment of the agreement to provide maintenance for the UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopters operated by the Swedish Armed Forces. In Sweden, the UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopters are designated HKP 16.

Saab will establish a maintenance organization, supported by Sikorsky Aerospace Maintenance personnel, for HKP 16 comprising helicopter technicians and other technical support staff based at Malmslätt in Linköping, Sweden.

The first helicopters were handed over to the Helicopter Wing in Malmslätt yesterday, and at the beginning of next year, all 15 UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopters designated HKP 16, will be in operational service.

"We are delighted about our collaboration with Sikorsky and the agreement strengthens our commitment to helicopter maintenance. We possess unique technical expertise with regard to support solutions and are certified to conduct helicopter operations. Combined with Saab's stable financial position, this will pave the way for success within the helicopter field. We look forward to a long term partnership with both Sikorsky and the Swedish Armed Forces," said Lars-Erik Wige, Head of the Support and Services business area at Saab.