President Donald Trump has declared that Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin (Lockheed Martin (LMT)), will be financing a new helicopter landing pad at the White House.
On Monday, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that Sikorsky would fund a new granite landing pad on the White House South Lawn. The pad is designed for the VH-92A Patriot model Marine One helicopters, which have been causing damage to the lawn during landings.
Trump indicated that Sikorsky would invest approximately $5 million to $6 million in the project. He also requested a carved seal of the White House to be featured on the helipad. "They're paying the full cost, and when I heard they were paying the cost, I went out and said, 'Let's do a beauty. Let's not just do a piece of concrete and paint it white,'" he said.
Lockheed confirmed the contribution range mentioned by Trump to Reuters in a statement, but did not disclose a specific cost. The company spokesperson said the contribution was made specifically to the National Park Service and emphasized that the company's dealings with the federal government follow strict ethics and compliance standards and comply with all applicable laws and regulations.
VH-92A Sparks Helipad Plan
The decision to construct the helipad comes after years of failed attempts to modify the VH-92A to land at the White House. Government reports dating back to at least 2018 warned that the VH-92A helicopter's engines and auxiliary power unit could damage the White House lawn.
Unlike the older VH-3D, which lands on protective boards, the newer helicopter's exhaust can scorch the ground in hot and dry conditions. The VH-92A also has a significantly higher carrying capacity, able to transport 6,200 pounds more than the VH-3D, according to a previous report by the Wall Street Journal.
Trump's Renovation Plans
The helipad is the latest White House renovation under Trump's second term, after the ballroom, Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, and the Rose Garden, reflecting his hands-on approach to upgrading the historic grounds, drawing on his real estate development background.
Trump said that the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool would be drained after the July 4 celebrations for repairs, claiming it was damaged by vandals who tore its waterproof liner. He said the pool would be restored after the repairs are completed.
The President also said that the algae had been cleared, damaged grass would be replaced, and restoration work at Lafayette Square was nearly complete. He also announced plans to redevelop the East Potomac Golf Links, citing poor course conditions.
