Cherokee Nation Industries is furthering its relationship with industry leader Sikorsky Aircraft Corp.

The tribal enterprise was recently honored as a 2013 Sikorsky Gold Supplier and awarded a $5.1 million contract to provide frame and instrument panel assembly for the S-300C helicopter.

“Aerospace and defense manufacturing is a core industry in Oklahoma and our business portfolio,” said Principal Chief Bill John Baker. “The Cherokee Nation plays a vital role in this industry and is proud to have earned a new multimillion dollar contract with Sikorsky. This new contract creates more jobs in an advanced, high-tech industry.”

Baker said the Gold Supplier certification “reflects the commitment to quality we have established in our advanced manufacturing efforts at CNI.”

The S-300C is known as one of the finest and most versatile piston engine rotorcrafts. Its maneuverability, responsive handling, range and endurance make it ideal for personal transportation, military and civil training, aerial photography, law enforcement patrol and more.

The 18-month contract allocates $4 million for the production of 84 instrument panels that integrates all flight instruments, with the exception of customer-specified radios. CNI will also provide frame assembly for 74 aircrafts, adding $1.1 million to the contract.

“We have developed a long-standing relationship with Sikorsky and, through that relationship, established a reputation for excellence in our field,” said Chris Moody, president of Cherokee Nation Industries. “We are honored to have the opportunity to expand our work.”

Sikorsky's Gold Supplier Certification honors Cherokee Nation Industries dedication to best-in-class performance in quality, delivery, lean techniques and customer satisfaction. This is the second, consecutive year CNI has received the honor.

“Maintaining this status rating in such a competitive market is a true testament to our unwavering dedication to quality customer service,” said Moody. “We will continue to work hard every day to ensure the Cherokee Nation is well represented and that the integrity of our industry remains of the highest caliber.”