The US Army has awarded Sikorsky a full $376 million in funding for the continued production and delivery of UH-60M and HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.
The deal strengthens the long-standing partnership between the two in delivering state-of-the-art aircraft that support a wide range of military missions.
The army has an existing $52-million order for HH-60M helicopters. It also plans to upgrade its fleet of UH-60 helicopters using funds reallocated from the canceled Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft program.
With the latest contract, Sikorsky is expected to continue supplying Black Hawk helicopters to the US Army through December 2027
Negotiations are still underway on whether to extend Black Hawk production to 2032.
‘Backbone’ of Rotary-Wing Fleet
The Black Hawk is one of the most widely used helicopters in the US Army and is often referred to as the “backbone” of its rotary-wing fleet.
Its latest variant, the UH-60M, features more powerful main rotor blades, providing 500 pounds (226 kilograms) more lift than its predecessor.
It also boasts an improved fuselage, advanced infrared suppression, and an integrated vehicle health management system.
Meanwhile, the HH-60M is a medical evacuation version of the UH-60M, providing aerial medical support and ambulatory patient transport services.
Powered by two General Electric T700 turboshaft engines, it is capable of performing evacuation missions even in challenging weather conditions.
