Sikorsky Aircraft, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX) has selected Meggitt Polymer & Composites and Meggitt Safety Systems for the newly-formed team building a next-generation helicopter—known as the S-97 Raider—for evaluation by the US military. Meggitt's failsafe technology will prevent aircraft fuel systems from rupturing from the impact of crashes or bullets, while its fire protection systems will deliver fully integrated detection and suppression.

Meggitt is among 35 companies announced as preferred suppliers by Sikorsky on January 12, during the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Aviation symposium at National Harbor, Maryland, near Washington DC.

"We are highly optimistic about partnering with Sikorsky on the S-97 Raider platform as it positions Meggitt squarely in the future of vertical lift technology," said John Skubina, Deputy President, Sr VP, Strategy Sales & Marketing, Meggitt Polymers & Composites.