An unspecified number of workers at Sikorsky Aircraft, the Stratford-based division of Lockheed Martin, will be laid off by the end of August, following Lockheed Martin’s July 13 announcement that it was cutting 350 jobs in its Mission Systems and Training division. Lockheed Martin spokesman Chris Williams noted that no Sikorsky employees were affected by that cut.
“We continue to conduct a thorough analysis of the Sikorsky business,” Williams said. “Sikorsky employees impacted will be notified and will exit the business by the end of August. Although difficult, this action is necessary to ensure we remain competitive in the marketplace, secure future business opportunities, and keep our infrastructure appropriately aligned with customer demands.”
Sikorsky has nearly 15,000 employees in 11 countries, with roughly 8,000 working in Connecticut. Lockheed announced in April its plans to eliminate about 1,500 positions companywide.
“I am pressing the company for information as promptly as possible on any potential impact,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). “I am deeply troubled and concerned about such possible workforce changes because of the ramifications for individual jobs and communities. I will fight to protect Connecticut jobs against unjustifiable job reductions, working with my colleagues in the delegation.”
“Lockheed Martin’s plans to eliminate jobs at Sikorsky, which may include layoffs in Connecticut, will have a devastating impact on working families and local communities,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-3rd District), whose constituents include Stratford residents. “Connecticut has a rich history of being a leader in the defense manufacturing industry, and after so many commitments from the people of this state and the federal government, Sikorsky”™s workers deserve better.”
