OREANDA-NEWS. Erickson Incorporated, a leading global provider of aviation services, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a five year, $13 million Blanket Purchase Agreement by the United States Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAF). Erickson is one of a few select vendors that will be providing “on demand” fixed wing aerial services to the U.S. Department of Defense, transporting personnel and equipment in the North and Western regions of Africa.

“Erickson is proud to be a part of the United States Special Operations African Command team,” said Brian Pierson, Vice President and General Manager of Erickson’s Global Defense and Security business unit. “This award demonstrates Erickson’s continued ability to deliver support to the U.S. military in one of the most austere and remote operating environments in the world.“

Currently, Erickson operates aircraft in Central and East Africa in support of USAFRICOM missions.  Due to its operational footprint, Erickson is well positioned to provide “on demand” services. The contract commences immediately and has a period of performance extending through November 2021. 

Erickson operates under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 135, holding Commercial Airlift Review Board (CARB) approval to operate both fixed and rotary wing aircraft for the U.S. Department of Defense. The company also offers passenger and cargo transport to the U.S. State Department and aligned government agencies and civilian contractors.

Erickson specializes in remote and austere operations, often in hostile areas. These missions include external load operations, passenger transport, cargo, combination loads, Low Cost/Low Altitude (LCLA) airdrops, Short Takeoff and Landing STOL and, MEDEVAC/CASEVAC. Additionally, the company’s aircraft can be equipped with Night Vision Goggles, Ballistic Protection, and Roller Systems.

The Global Defense and Security business unit at Erickson has a history of nearly 50 years of serving the U.S. and allied nations.

Erickson is a leading global provider of aviation services and operates, maintains and manufactures utility aircraft to safely transport and place people and cargo around the world.  The Company is self-reliant, multifaceted and operates in remote locations under challenging conditions specializing in Global Defense and Security, Manufacturing and MRO, and Commercial Services (comprised of firefighting, HVAC, power line, construction, timber harvesting, oil and gas and specialty lift). With roots dating back to 1960, Erickson operates a fleet of approximately 80 aircraft, is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, USA, and operates in North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and Australia.