Helibasket LLC, based out of West Union, South Carolina, delivered the first seven of its HB2000 Heli-Baskets to PZL Mielec, a Lockheed Martin company, to support its 2023 shipment of new-generation Sikorsky S-70M Black Hawk utility helicopters to the European market. Purchased by PZL as part of the European Union’s VISION 2020 project, the Heli-Baskets are an addition to the new Black Hawk utility helicopters, helping support the Black Hawk’s broad multi-role mission set with enhanced external cargo capability.
The HB2000 Heli-Basket is now an available option for the S-70M, enhancing mission flexibility for current and future Black Hawk users. The Heli-Baskets are part of a program with PZL supporting a requirement for up to 12 baskets delivered to Poland over the course of the next year. With its 4,500-pound (2,000-kilogram) capacity and ability to stay stable in any flight condition, the Heli-Basket is being positioned as a “necessary addition” to any logistics or cargo transport mission. Helibasket equipment supports all branches of the U.S. Military, National Guard, Reserves, and other agencies.
“Helibasket LLC was privileged and thrilled to work with Sikorsky and PZL to be a part of this contract. The versatility of Sikorsky’s new S-70M Black Hawk utility helicopter is only bolstered by the flexibility and efficiency that the Heli-Basket brings, and we are proud to be included among the Black Hawk mission equipment options,” said John Tollenaere, operations manager at Helibasket LLC.
About Helibasket LLC: LLC designs and manufactures helicopter external-load and ground support equipment products that emphasize quality, safety, and logistical advantage. Helibasket delivers high-quality Tow Bridles, Electric Long Lines and Remote Tactical Hook Systems for extreme conditions; as well as its flagship utility and rescue device: the Heli-Basket®. Headquartered in West Union, SC, Helibasket LLC has been developing and manufacturing products for use in the helicopter industry since 1990. These products include ground-support and external-load equipment such as the Helibasket, tow bridles, electric long lines and remote cargo hooks.