Just three weeks after announcing plans that could see it dispose of Sikorsky, United Technologies (UTC) appointed Robert “Bob” Leduc as president of the helicopter manufacturer, succeeding Mick Maurer. Effective immediately, Mauer was promoted to the newly created position of UTC senior vice president of strategic projects. Both Leduc and Mauer will report to UTC president and CEO Gregory Hayes.

"Bob has the vision and experience necessary to lead Sikorsky today and as its future CEO, should Sikorsky be spun off,” Hayes said. Before he retired last year, Leduc led a number of companies during his 35-year aerospace career, including the large commercial engines business at UTC subsidiary Pratt & Whitney. In his new role, Maurer will work with Mike Dumais, UTC senior vice president of strategic planning, to complete the strategic-alternatives review for Sikorsky and “to ensure a successful separation should UTC pursue a spinoff.”

Forecast International analysts recently said they believe that Sikorsky's long-term business potential is bright. In the military sector alone, they project that the company will build 1,658 rotorcraft over the next 15 years, accumulating a market share of 19.3 percent.