Sikorsky to Cut Jobs in Connecticut Amid Army's Scrapped Helicopter Program

Sikorsky to cut jobs in Connecticut following the Army's decision to scrap a helicopter program. Details on impacts and responses.

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has revealed plans to lay off up to 400 employees in Connecticut after the U.S. Army decides to cancel the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) program. The job cuts, which primarily affect engineering and digital technology positions, account for less than 1% of Lockheed Martin’s total workforce. The news has disappointed Connecticut lawmakers who had hoped that funding for the FARA program, secured in the fiscal 2024 spending bill, would protect engineering jobs at both Sikorsky and its competitor, Bell.

Connecticut Lawmakers Seek Answers

Representatives Joe Courtney and Rosa DeLauro have expressed their intention to seek answers from Sikorsky and the Army regarding the layoffs. The Army’s decision to cancel the multi-billion dollar FARA program, which employed roughly 600 Connecticut-based engineers working on Sikorsky’s Raider X helicopter, reflects the advancements made in drone technology. Army officials believe that drones are better suited for reconnaissance missions than piloted scout helicopters.

Sikorsky confirmed the layoffs in a statement, expressing their intent to “retain as many roles as possible to meet national security commitments and preserve the U.S. rotary wing industrial base.” The company plans to lay off workers across its U.S. locations, with approximately 350 jobs affected in Stratford and another 50 elsewhere in Connecticut.

Connecticut officials, including Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal, as well as Representative Rosa DeLauro, have voiced their disappointment and commitment to assisting the impacted workers. They stress the importance of maintaining high-skilled manufacturing jobs in Connecticut and ensuring Sikorsky remains competitive in the defense industry.

Sikorsky's Recent Challenges

The layoffs come just a year after Sikorsky announced cuts to 179 employees in Connecticut due to losing the chance to create a helicopter that would have replaced the Black Hawk. The news also arrives a week before a major military rotorcraft conference hosted by the Army Aviation Association of America.

Sikorsky’s challenges highlight the importance of adaptability in the rapidly evolving defense industry. As the company navigates the aftermath of the FARA program’s cancellation, it must explore new opportunities to maintain its workforce and remain a key player in the rotary wing sector.

The Future of Connecticut's Defense Manufacturing

As Sikorsky faces the consequences of the Army’s decision, Connecticut lawmakers and local leaders remain dedicated to supporting the affected workers and securing the future of the state’s defense manufacturing sector. The collaboration between the company, government officials, and the community will be crucial in mitigating the impact of the layoffs and finding new avenues for growth.