Union members approve deal to keep Sikorsky Aircraft

Union members have voted for a deal that would keep Sikorsky Aircraft manufacturing U.S. Navy helicopters in Stratford, Connecticut, for at least the next 16 years.

More than 2,000 Teamsters voted Sunday for the state deal that includes a 25 percent pay cut for workers hired starting in 2017. The deal had been reached between Sikorsky, Democratic Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's administration and Sikorsky's new owner, Maryland-based Lockheed Martin.

It had received General Assembly approval Sept. 28.

Sikorsky agreed to increase its full-time employment in Stratford by 400 employees by the 14th year of the agreement.

Sikorsky is tasked with building CH-53K helicopters, next-generation helicopters that Lockheed sought $400 million in savings to make.

The new proposal also includes pension changes, a ratification bonus and a change in workweek hours.