Senator Richard Blumenthal Slams Attempt to Outsource Construction of Marine One Replacement

(Hartford, CT) – Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the following statement this afternoon on news reports that a Chinese company is working together with a California firm to bid for U.S. defense contracts, including supplying the replacement for President Obama’s helicopter, Marine One:

“I am astounded at news reports that China Aviation Industry Corp is attempting to supply a replacement for Marine One – jeopardizing thousands of American jobs – particularly at a time when the U.S. economy struggles to recover and while China maintains deliberate, consistent policies which undermine U.S. exports. Sikorsky Aircraft has proudly provided outstanding American-made helicopters to our military for decades, and should be the first place we turn to for the next generation of military transport. I will fight at every level these efforts to outsource the replacement of Marine One to China, because our highest priority must continue to be fostering economic growth and creating jobs here at home. Sikorsky helicopters have served our nation well, and they should continue to play a vital role not only in American job security but also our country’s security.”

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