WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro today issued the following statement regarding Sikorsky Aircraft’s decision to not protest the Navy’s contract for the Marine One helicopter.

“By all accounts, Sikorsky makes the safest, most secure aircraft, and has a good case for protesting this contract award – particularly since the Navy confirmed that Sikorsky had the better performing aircraft. I am very disappointed that the company did not pursue a protest with the Government Accountability Office, yet I recognize that Sikorsky’s executives have a number of considerations to take into account, and I respect that they are doing what they believe to be in the best interests of the company and its employees.

“I believe that there is still some uncertainty about the ability of AgustaWestland to provide “Yankee White” level of security in their construction facilities, which is why I continue to pursue legislation in Congress to ensure that no matter who the manufacturer is, the president’s helicopter is 100% made in America.

“I look forward to hearing directly from the Navy during the delegation’s briefing tomorrow.”