(03/30/06) STRATFORD - Connecticut leaders are speaking out against Sikorsky?s plan to move some production work out of state.

The company, locked in an ongoing labor battle with its workers, is sending work on its S-92 and S-76 helicopters to Pennsylvania. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-3rd District) says the move is unnecessary and premature. According to Senator Chris Dodd (R-CT), the plan negatively affects Sikorsky and the national security of the United States. Governor Jodi Rell (R-CT) says the entire situation is hurting Connecticut?s image among businesses.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Navy said the strike is causing "rapidly dwindling" supplies of spare parts for a military helicopter used in Iraq and around the world. Teamsters have been on strike since February 20 after they rejected a contract offer from Sikorsky. Health benefits are a major sticking point in the negotiations.

Related stories: U.S. Navy says Sikorsky strike taking toll on supplies Union leaders hold emergency meetings for striking Sikorsky workers Sikorsky union president says latest offer would leave members poorer