Bell continues to court the Polish authorities for control of Swidnik

Published: 10/4/1999

Bell has followed up its interest in acquiring Poland's helicopter manufacturer, PZL Swidnik, with a recent visit to the company by a senior management team from Bell and its parent company, Textron. Bell is keen to exploit Swidnik's manufacturing and R & D capabilities, as well as the expertise of its engineering team to support its operations in Texas, where production is expected to increase. During the visit, Bell and Textron also held talks with the Polish government. Bell has already agreed to participate in the restructuring of the Polish aerospace industry - one of the conditions set by the government - with the cancellation of the government's current bid for attack helicopters in favour of Bell's AH-1W Super Cobras being mooted as a quid pro quo (www.concise.org.4th September 1999). Its emergence as a front runner is seen as something of a surprise although, given the attractiveness of Swidnik as the only viable European helicopter manufacturer available for purchase, US interest was inevitable. Augusta of Italy had previously been considered as the leading contender. Bell's determination may win out yet.

Article ID: 935