Sikorsky Unveils New S-92 Phase IV Main Gearbox

The manufacturer said it invested more than $100 million and more than a decade designing, testing, and optimizing the auxiliary lubrication system that automatically engages in the event of primary oil pressure loss.

The system eliminates the need for immediate landing and allows operators to safely reach their destination, Leon Silva, vice president of Sikorsky's global commercial and military systems, said Tuesday at Verticon in Dallas.

"This revolutionary solution has been validated through more than 800 hours of rigorous testing, and FAA certification is anticipated in 2025," the company said. "Four gearboxes have been completed at the company’s Stratford [Connecticut] headquarters, and customers are already vying to become first adopters."

The S-92 is operated for critical missions including offshore energy transportation, search and rescue, and head of state transportation.

This is the latest S-92 enhancement revealed by Sikorsky in recent months. The manufacturer increased intervals for scheduled inspections and a one-time life extension for specific main gearbox housings, which it said eliminates more than a full year of inspection-related downtime.