Romania has tapped PZL Mielec, a Lockheed Martin company, to deliver an additional S-70M Black Hawk utility helicopter for its emergency and fire fighting missions.
The new helicopter will join Bucharest’s seven other S-70Ms on missions such as maritime and land search and rescue, transport, and medical support.
The purchase was funded by the EU’s RescEU program, which aims to bolster disaster risk management efforts in the region through newer capabilities and facilities.
“This Polish-built S-70M Black Hawk will further extend the reach of the existing Romanian Black Hawk fleet and supports Romania in its commitment to contribute to strengthening European preparedness for disasters,” Lockheed Central and Eastern Europe VP Dennis Goege said.
The Black Hawk
Favored for its suitability on long-range and high-altitude missions, the Black Hawk reaches speeds of up to 183 miles (282 kilometers) per hour in challenging conditions.
It can accommodate 11 seated troops or six stretchers and can carry up to 9,000 pounds (4,100 kilograms).
It can also be fitted with two 7.62 mm machine guns, miniguns, or 12.7 mm gatling guns.
Other Black Hawk operators include Australia, the Philippines, and the US.
