The US State Department has approved a potential $1.075-billion sale of 11 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters to Mexico.
The request includes 27 T700-GE-701D engines, 27 embedded GPS and inertial navigation systems, and satellite communications radios.
The proposed package also covers machine guns, night vision goggles, electro-optical and infrared sensors, ballistic armor, rescue hoists, and auxiliary fuel tanks.
According to the State Department, the acquisition would help Mexico modernize its rotary-wing fleet, consolidate helicopter types, and expand its existing UH-60M fleet.
It would also improve the country’s ability to provide airlift support to forces conducting counter-drug operations.
The UH-60M is a medium-lift utility helicopter developed by Sikorsky for missions such as troop transport, air assault, search and rescue, and medical evacuation. Its digital avionics and upgraded engines provide greater range and lifting capacity than earlier Black Hawk variants.
The aircraft can carry 11 fully equipped troops or transport cargo using an external load system.
The proposed sale would also involve 15 additional US government or contractor representatives traveling to Mexico to support equipment delivery, system checks, training, and technical and logistics requirements.
US-Mexico Defense Deals
The proposed helicopter sale follows a longer history of US military support for Mexico, including an earlier Black Hawk package.
In September, the Mexican Air Force announced the acquisition of its second C-130J-30 Super Hercules from Lockheed Martin, about eight months after receiving its first aircraft. The tactical airlifter will support cargo transport, emergency relief, and personnel deployment.
In August, the country’s Ministry of National Defense secured access to the US Army’s digital marketplace to procure unmanned aerial systems and counter-drone technology. The agreement aims to strengthen operations against organized crime.
The two nations have also continued to expand security cooperation beyond military equipment sales. In September 2025, they announced a new high-level implementation group to coordinate efforts against transnational organized crime, drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and border security threats.