Published: 3/27/1998

PZL-Swidnik has reported that 1997 was a difficult year with losses of 7 million PLN (aprox. $US2 million). The company sold only 13 helicopters, as against the 20 planned. The Polish Army took delivery of only six units, instead of ten, while Swidnik's Asian partner purchased only two instead of seven, to which it was obliged. Later, the Korean order was renegotiated and scaled down to 5. Apart from Sokols, Swidnik delivered 80 PW-5 World Class gliders and 14 centre wing boxes for the ATR-72. Additional work included subcontracting for western aviation manufacturers and repairs and overhauls. Swidnik is in trouble due to extended delays on the Huzar armed helicopter programme, which is already two years behind schedule. Selection of avionics and weaponry has still not being decided and unofficial comments from Warsaw are not too optimistic:it is likely that the decision could be postponed again. Despite its problems Swidnik is scheduling 15 Sokols to be manufactured this year. 1998 is certainly going to be a difficult year for PZL-Swidnik, but, plans may allow it to survive. It is planning to deliver 13 Sokols, of which eight are to be handed to Polish Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Interior and Administration. Three others are to be taken by Daewoo, Swidnik's partner responsible for marketing the type in Asia, Africa and Australia. Two helicopters will be delivered to other commercial operators. Additional orders already signed are two Kanias and an initial order for two Sw-4s light single engines models. The company will keep production of the SW-5 World Class Glider, 90 of which are to be manufactured and 6 two seat trainers known as the PW-6.(MM) (IN398.7)

Article ID: 136