Eaton Contract for Fluid Power Components On Army´s New Comanche Helicopter has $250 Million Potential
CLEVELAND--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 20, 2001--Diversified industrial manufacturer Eaton Corporation (NYSE:ETN) said today its Aerospace business unit has entered into a memorandum of understanding contract award with Sikorsky Aircraft to provide the fluid power components for the complete hydraulic system of the U. S. Army's new RAH-66 Comanche helicopter.
The engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase contract
award represents more than $8 million, and the total program potential
for Eaton exceeds $250 million over the next 25 years.
The RAH-66 Comanche is the world's most advanced helicopter and
the cornerstone of the Army's objective aviation modernization plan.
The new helicopter has a cruising speed of 185 miles per hour, and a
dash speed of 197 miles per hour. It is also highly maneuverable, with
the ability to execute snap turns in 4.5 seconds and fly sideways and
backwards at up to 70 mph.
The advanced aircraft will incorporate a number of Eaton fluid
power components including two 3000 psi pump reservoir modules, one
System III reservoir module, one heat exchanger, one starter pump and
two cartridge vane motors per aircraft.
During the EMD phase from 2001 through 2006, 13 fully equipped
aircraft will be built and flight tested. Full production of the
advanced helicopter is scheduled to begin in 2007 and last through
2025. Current requirements call for more than 1,200 helicopters to be
produced for the Army.
In the aerospace industry, Eaton is a leading supplier of
hydraulic, electro-hydraulic pump and generator products and
integrated systems; electric motors; aircraft flap and slat systems;
fluid conveyance products and systems; nose wheel steering systems;
integrated control systems; cockpit controls; power and load
management systems; pressure sensors and fluid debris monitoring
products and systems. Eaton's Aerospace business unit serves
commercial and military aviation, aerospace, military weapons, marine
and off-road markets worldwide.
Eaton Corporation is a global $8 billion diversified industrial
manufacturer that is a leader in fluid power systems; electrical power
quality, distribution and control; automotive engine air management
and fuel economy; and intelligent truck systems for fuel economy and
safety. Eaton's 54,000 employees work in 29 countries on six
continents. For more information, visit
Source: Eaton Corporation plc