The Air Force is planning to replace their HH-60 “Pave Hawk” Combat Rescue Helicopters with 112 new aircraft.

Until recently their had been significant interest in this contract, but Defense News is reporting,

“EADS North America, Boeing and Northrop Grumman all confirmed to Defense News that they will not be putting in a bid on the program before the Jan. 3 due date. The decision was first reported by Reuters.”

“…leaving a clear path for Sikorsky to land the nearly $7 billion contract.”

The Coast Guard will need to start looking at how to address their aging helicopter fleet in the near future. The Air Force buy may have a significant influence on the Coast Guard’s choice.