Lockheed Martin has delivered the final two S-70i medium transport/utility helicopters to the Polish Armed Forces as part of a contract signed in 2021.
Led by Lockheed’s Polish segment PZL Mielec, the handover officially completed the deal for a total of four units to the military — each based on the first iteration of the US Army’s proven UH-60M Black Hawk system.
The initial S-70i aircraft supplied to Warsaw had capabilities proven for a response mission to address the recent floods in the country’s southern region, Lockheed said.
In July 2023, Poland’s defense agency announced negotiations to acquire more of the helicopters for air mobile troops in addition to four S-70i platforms ordered and delivered in 2019 that are in service under the Polish Army’s Special Forces.
“This delivery of the last two contracted Black Hawk helicopters brings the Polish Armed Force’s fleet to eight aircraft, which will significantly enhance their operational capabilities and increase the country’s security,” PZL President and General Director Janusz Zakręcki stated.
“We look forward to continue working with the Ministry of Defense in sustaining the fleet to support the Polish Armed Force’s important operational missions.”
Lockheed’s S-70i
The S-70i can carry up to 12 passengers or approximately 9,000 pounds (4,082 kilograms) of cargo.
It has a rotor diameter of 54 feet (16 meters) and an overall airframe length of 64 feet (20 meters).
The helicopter is powered by twin General Electric T700 turboshaft engines with 1,940 horsepower each for a range of 290 miles (467 kilometers), a service ceiling of 20,000 feet (6,096 meters), and a maximum speed of 195 knots (224 miles/361 kilometers per hour).
The S-70 family of helicopters is active in 10 nations, including Poland, Ukraine, and the US.