Kaman Air Vehicles has received signed purchase agreements for two K-MAX medium-to-heavy lift helicopters. Deliveries are expected in the fourth quarter of 2021.

The K-MAX features a counter-rotating rotor system and is optimised for repetitive external load operations. The aircraft can lift up to 6,000 pounds with high performance in hot and high conditions.

“We are thrilled that the K-MAX continues to be the helicopter of choice for external lift applications that require the need for precise, efficient and cost-effective operations,” says Roger Wassmuth, senior director of business development. “The proven firefighting capabilities of the K-MAX and the tireless efforts of its operators throughout the 2021 fire season have garnered the K-MAX with the reputation of being the most accurate water placement according to the United States Forest Service hotshot ground crew survey.”

“Kaman is pleased to continue the delivery of K-MAX helicopters to the external lift industry,” adds Darlene Smith, president. “The K-MAX is a clear choice for the repetitive lift market where there is an urgent need for a reliable aerial platform to perform critical missions such as firefighting and infrastructure building.”

Kaman is continuing to advance its unmanned Titan UAV aerial system with ongoing flight-testing by utilising Kaman's test aircraft and U.S. Marine Corps K-MAX aircraft. The Titan UAV aerial system can also be installed in new and existing commercial K-MAX aircraft once FAA certification is completed.