Governor M. Jodi Rell today issued the following statement concerning the announcement that Connecticut-based helicopter maker Sikorsky and aerospace manufacturer Lockheed Martin are teaming together to bid on the U.S. Navy’s VXX presidential helicopter program:

“The news that Sikorsky – the provider of the Marine One fleet for every president since Dwight D. Eisenhower – is teaming with Lockheed Martin to compete for the next generation of the presidential helicopter program is good for Connecticut and good for the nation. Our President should be carried in an American-built helicopter.

“Sikorsky’s successful history and experience in providing and maintaining this fleet is tremendously valuable. In partnership with Lockheed Martin, it offers a great opportunity for our state to continue its unique legacy in aerospace research, design and construction. The outstanding work force based in Stratford, with their record of excellence in commercial, military and VIP transportation aircraft, will be highly competitive in this future acquisition program.

“The Department of Defense deserves credit for its wise decision to get the presidential helicopter program back on track with the VXX. And we applaud the corporate leadership and work force here in Connecticut for their outstanding record of success – and look forward to seeing that record continue for years to come.”