Starting in the summer of 2021, the Sikorsky VH-92A helicopter will replace the VH-3D and VH-60 helicopters as Biden’s new “Marine One”.
The VH-92 is a presidential version of the Sikorsky S-92, a 13-ton advanced large helicopter developed by the United States in conjunction with China, Japan, Spain, Brazil and other countries. Among other things, China’s Jingdezhen Helicopter Group is responsible for the development and production of the helicopter’s tail beam structure.
It is also noteworthy that within the next four years, the U.S. Air Force One, converted from a Boeing 747, will be phased out and replaced by the VC-25B, converted from a Boeing 747-8; and Chinese companies are among the manufacturers of the Boeing 747, with Xi’an Aircraft Industry manufacturing the 747-8’s inboard flaps, vertical tail and fixed trailing edge wing ribs; Chengdu manufacturing the 747-8’s ailerons, spoilers, horizontal tail parts and subassemblies; Boeing Tianjin providing wedge trailing edge and composite parts and panels; and Jiangxi Hongdu Aviation Industry Group producing the 747-8’s rear fuselage subassemblies and parts.
From Air Force One to Marine One, Biden’s future presidential aircraft will have a “Made in China” shadow, according to Chinese media.