Czech-based Aero Vodochody is bidding for the takeover of Polish helicopter manufacturer PZL-Swidnik, which is to be privatized. Aero Vodochody claims that, with its 5,500 employees and annual revenues of U290 million ($370 million), the Aero-PZL Swidnik Group would have “a better position, especially in the field of aerostructures.” The factory in Swidnik would become a research and development center in the field of composites and spare parts. It would retain its role in helicopter development, production and maintenance.