Helicopter Contracts Targeted

Nova Scotia's $500-million aerospace industry will market the province's business case on the tarmac of the Le Bourget airfield at the 45th annual Paris air show from June 15-22.

The Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Nova Scotia (ADIANS) will attend the show to target the lucrative $5.5- billion contract for the Maritime Helicopter Program. The ADIANS will be joined by Economic Development Minister Cecil Clarke in key strategic meetings from June 16-18.

"Three teams are bidding for the contract, and we must ensure Nova Scotia companies are included as the bids are prepared," said Mr. Clarke, Minister responsible for Innovation, Trade and Commerce. "We have a full agenda of meetings involving all three teams and their associate companies, and will be aggressively pushing Nova Scotia's competitive advantages."

"We have a competitive product, our ability to market that product is made easier with the support of government," said Mike Hollihan, ADIANS president. "The presence of the minister of Economic Development is invaluable in helping us strongly present the Nova Scotia business case to garner investment and secure job opportunities."

The association intends to showcase the capabilities of its members and look to expand business far beyond provincial borders. Nova Scotia's aerospace industry employs about 5,200 people and generates about $500 million in revenues annually. Halifax ranks second in the aerospace sector for cost competitiveness, according to a global KPMG Competitive Alternatives Study.

"This is a tremendous commercial opportunity for our aerospace industry," said Mr. Clarke. "With $3 billion on the table for the helicopter contract and another $2.5 billion over 20 years for in-service support, it's imperative that we sell our competitive advantages and incorporate Nova Scotia content during this critical stage in the bidding process to replace the Sea King helicopters."

The three contending teams are Lockheed Martin/NH Industries, Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and EH Industries. The three main bidders expect to be advised soon whether they have passed the prequalification stage. A call for proposals is expected by the fall with the contract expected to be awarded in early 2004.