United States
Australia
United Kingdom
Europe
New Zealand
Canada
Farnborough, United Kingdom, July 16, 2026 — Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, confirmed it is pursuing the establishment of a Next Generation Rotorcraft production line in Europe, a step the company says will deepen collaboration with NATO and expand research and development on the continent.
“We are committed to strengthening our strategic partnerships, expanding industrial capacity and deepening our long-term presence in Europe,” said Dr. Dennis Goege, Lockheed Martin chief executive for Europe. “Local production supports a highly skilled regional workforce, reinforces Europe’s defence industrial base and enhances NATO readiness.”
Sikorsky outlined expected benefits from a European hub, including tighter logistics and improved rapid-response posture for the alliance through localized development, production, and component manufacturing. The company also projects growth in high-skill jobs, stimulation of local supply chains, and new training pathways for emerging aerospace talent. By drawing on multinational expertise, it aims to deliver a global NGRC solution focused on performance, safety, and cost effectiveness.
Current work includes studies of advanced airframe configurations, open-architecture avionics, and mission systems aligned with evolving NATO deterrence concepts. Sikorsky plans to integrate leading European aerospace firms and suppliers into a locally sourced production line, with an emphasis on technology transfer, job creation, and long-term sustainment across the region and beyond. In parallel, the company is expanding efforts in Asia through a joint program with industry partners to develop an international X2 variant designed to be adaptable across diverse operational environments.
The NGRC initiative began in 2022 and involves France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Canada, with the United States and Spain participating as observers. The program seeks a medium-class, multi-role rotorcraft to succeed current medium multi-role helicopters in service. NATO’s Support and Procurement Agency, through its NGRC Support Partnership, will lead the effort to meet that requirement on a timely and cost-effective basis while leveraging recent advances in technology, production methods, and operational concepts.
