STRATFORD, CT—The U.S. Navy has approved full-rate production of the Sikorsky CH-53K helicopter, a decision that is expected to increase production to more than 20 helicopters annually in the coming years. Sikorsky is procuring long-lead items and critical materials to support building full rate production CH-53K helicopters in its digital factory.

With an eye to the future, the U.S. Army held its Joint Multi-Role (JMR) competition in June 2014 to select the next generation of high-speed-rotorcraft helicopters.

LAFAYETTE, LA—Bell Helicopter has opened a $26 million assembly plant here to build a new small commercial helicopter.

LAFAYETTE, LA—Bell Helicopter will hire 115 employees for its $26.3 million assembly plant under construction here.

LAFAYETTE, LA—Bell Helicopter has begun constructing a new $26.3 million assembly plant here to make the company’s new line of Short Light Single helicopters.

BROUSSARD, LA—Bell Helicopter has opened a new composites manufacturing facility here. The $4.5 million, 28,000-square-foot plant will employ 30.

FORT ERIE, ON—Airbus Helicopters is expanding its assembly plant here, adding 40 jobs.

LAFAYETTE, LA—Bell Helicopter will build a $26.3 million assembly plant here to make its new line of SLS helicopters. The facility is expected to employ 136 people.

PHILADELPHIA—AgustaWestland will build the final assembly line for the new generation AW169 helicopter at its assembly plant here.