French defense contractor Safran has signed contracts to support helicopter engines for Chinese aerospace company GDAT.
GDAT is Beijing’s largest industry partner for rotorcraft leasing and distribution. The firm also provides repair, sustainment, and emergency rescues for the federal sector.
Safran’s first deal will cover support-by-the-hour services for the Makila engines powering GDAT’s Airbus-made H225 all-weather transport helicopters.
Another agreement will focus on the Arrano engines on the H160 medium utility helicopters that are currently being transferred from Irish lessor GD Helicopter Finance to the Shanghai-based company.
The contracts will cover a total of 140 engines and incorporate in-service support, maintenance, and overhaul operations.
Safran wrote that the agreements were signed in France during Chinese President Xi Jinping‘s state visit to the country in early May.
“We are particularly proud that a leading helicopter company like GDAT Group has placed its trust in us,” Safran Helicopter Engines CEO Cédric Goubet stated.
“GDAT Group has an ambitious fleet development strategy, and we’re going to support them with the best possible services for their success.
Airbus Helicopters in China
China’s GDAT was established in 2012 and primarily operates in Ningbo and Suzhou.
The company manages 21 Airbus H225 helicopters. Its segment Desheng General Aviation is responsible for the emergency rescue services of municipal governments and provinces across the nation.
In April 2024, the firm procured 20 H175 7-ton class super-medium utility helicopters from Airbus.
One year earlier, GDAT signed another contract for 50 new H160s for civil and public use.
Airbus revealed in 2019 that it handed over an H215 heavyweight helicopter to China as part of a separate project with the country’s state-owned electric power corporation.