Kaman is pleased to have secured another signature for its K-MAX medium lift helicopter. Development of the aircraft’s unmanned aerial system continues and Kaman expects its optionally piloted vehicle module to launch in 2021. Kaman Air Vehicles has received a signed purchase agreement for a K-MAX medium-to-heavy lift helicopter. Delivery of the aircraft is expected in the first quarter of 2021 and follows the delivery of two aircraft in the fourth quarter of 2020. Kaman continues to see demand and interest in the capabilities of the K-MAX across multiple markets. Development of the improved K-MAX unmanned aerial system continues and Kaman expects its optionally piloted vehicle module to enter ground and flight testing in the first half of 2021.
“We are excited for the opportunity to deliver our third K-MAX aircraft in the last two quarters. Our industry and our operators are benefiting from the cost effective repetitive lift mission capability of the K-MAX,” states Roger Wassmuth, senior director of business development. “This demand and our recent type certification in Brazil solidify the need and value proposition that the K-MAX offers in the global external lift market.”
“Our team has done a great job assessing the global market, identifying future technologies and working with potential and existing customers to secure additional orders for our K-MAX helicopter,” adds Darlene Smith, president of Kaman Air Vehicles/Precision Products Division. “We are very proud that Kaman continues to provide new K-MAX aircraft to customers worldwide.”
The Kaman K-MAX (company designation K-1200) is an American helicopter with intermeshing rotors (synchropter) by Kaman Aircraft. It is optimized for external cargo load operations, and is able to lift a payload of over 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg), which is more than the helicopter’s empty weight. An unmanned aerial vehicle version with optional remote control has been developed and evaluated in extended practical service in the war in Afghanistan. Kaman is continuing to develop a commercial optionally piloted aircraft to support its growing customer base, while working with the US Marine Corps on upgrading the autonomous capabilities of the unmanned K-MAX. The K-MAX is a rugged, low-maintenance aircraft that features a counter-rotating rotor system and is optimised for repetitive external load operations. The aircraft can lift up to 6,000 pounds with favourable performance in hot and high conditions.