Illinois-based North American Helicopter has signed a purchase agreement with Kaman Air Vehicles for a K-MAX medium-to-heavy lift helicopter, with delivery expected in the fourth quarter of 2022.

“Adding K-MAX to our fleet is an important step for expanding our overall external lift capabilities,” says president Jessica Bailey. “Our future power line projects and firefighting support will benefit greatly from the increased lift capability of K-MAX. Our strategic location in the Midwest near St Louis, Missouri allows us to respond quickly to our customers' needs throughout the United States, Canada and Caribbean.”

The K-MAX is a rugged, low-maintenance aircraft that features a counter-rotating rotor system and is optimised for repetitive external load operations. The aircraft can lift up to 6,000 pounds (2,722 kg) with unmatched performance in hot and high conditions.

“North American Helicopter has been a highly respected operator for more than 55 years and we appreciate the confidence it has placed in Kaman and the capabilities of the K-MAX. Adding the proven external lift and precision capabilities of K-MAX to its operations will enhance its operational services in support of the electrical and gas utility sectors and the Department of Defense,” says senior director of business development Roger Wassmuth.

Kaman has produced both manned and unmanned versions of the K-MAX, and the development of its Titan unmanned aerial system continues to progress.

“We believe the global market will benefit from the demonstrated performance of the K-MAX helicopter and expect to see additional requirements for this reliable platform for critical missions such as firefighting and infrastructure building,” says Kaman precision products division vice president, business development Phil Murphy.