WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Miss) and Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) today signaled their support for the possible sale to Thailand of Lakota Helicopters manufactured in Mississippi.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of the government of Thailand’s request to purchase six Lakota Helicopters, with associated training and equipment.  The estimated cost is $77 million.

“The purchase of these helicopters comes during an important time as our defense strategy pivots toward Asia,” said Wicker, a senior member of Senate Armed Services Committee. “I have great confidence that the Lakota aircraft will provide our Thai allies with the ability to work seamlessly with American forces. International support for the Lakota speaks volumes for Mississippi’s continued success as a high-tech manufacturing leader.”

“The sale of these aircraft has the potential to benefit our relationship with an important ally and to enhance the reputation of Mississippi’s manufacturing capabilities.  The men and women who produce the Lakota helicopters for the Department of Defense are among the best in the industry.  This proposed sale will give them certainty about the future and help ensure this plant is able to continue to efficiently support the U.S. military,” said Cochran, vice chairman of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee.

DSCA has also indicated that the proposed sale, which continues to be reviewed, will enhance interoperability between Thailand and the United States, while not adversely impacting U.S. defense readiness.  According to Inside the Army, this sale could be the precursor to additional aircraft purchase requests from the government of Thailand.

Every delivery of the Lakota to the United States Army, which is produced at Golden Triangle Regional Airport, has been ahead of schedule and under budget.  The helicopter is primarily used by the U.S. Army for non-combat missions including emergency response, border security, and light transport.