Australian Army receives new UH-60M Black Hawks helicopters.

As reported by the Australian Defence Magazine on July 1, 2024, the Australian Army has received an additional batch of UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, increasing the total number in service to six. These helicopters arrived at RAAF Richmond aboard US Air Force Boeing C-17A Globemaster III transport aircraft on June 17, 2024, and, after reassembly, were transported to the Australian Army’s Holsworthy base to join the 6th Aviation Regiment (6 AVN).
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The UH-60M is widely used by the U.S. Army and internationally, with various countries adopting this model in different configurations, such as the MH-60 for special operations, the HH-60 for combat search and rescue, and the UH-60V upgrade package for older models. (Picture source: Special Operations Command Australia)

According to a Defence spokesperson, six aircraft have been delivered as of June 2024, with an additional six scheduled for delivery by the end of the year. All six UH-60M Black Hawks have started flying operations, with the aircraft and crew advancing through introduction-into-service activities. The first two Australian UH-60M helicopters arrived at RAAF Richmond via a USAF C-17A in July 2023, with a third delivered in August. The latest deliveries increase the fleet to six units. A Defence spokesperson emphasized that the UH-60M Black Hawk provides the Army with the aviation capability needed to address contemporary challenges of warfare. The UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters will operate from bases in Holsworthy, New South Wales, and Oakey, Queensland.

In December 2021, the previous Australian government announced plans to acquire 40 UH-60Ms through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) process. In August 2022, the US State Department approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Australian Government, including 40 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and related equipment for an estimated cost of $1.95 billion. According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter would improve the Australian Army’s ability to deploy combat power within its strategic environment, deter threats to its interests, and respond effectively when necessary. The statement also noted that Australia would be able to integrate this equipment into its armed forces without difficulty.

As of 2023, Australia possesses a diverse helicopter fleet. The Army's inventory includes 22 Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters (ARH), 2 leased AW139 helicopters, and 89 transport helicopters, which are divided into 14 CH-47F Chinooks for heavy transport and 75 medium transport helicopters, including 41 NH90 TTH (MRH90) and 34 S-70A Black Hawks. In naval aviation, the fleet comprises 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and 21 transport helicopters, including 6 NH90 TTH (MRH90) operated on a rotational basis for medium transport and 15 H135 helicopters for light transport.

As of 2023, Australia possesses a diverse helicopter fleet, which includes 22 Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters (ARH). (Picture source: Australian Army)

The UH-60M is widely used by the U.S. Army and internationally, with various countries adopting this model in different configurations, such as the MH-60 for special operations, the HH-60 for combat search and rescue, and the UH-60V upgrade package for older models. This adaptability allows the UH-60M to perform in various mission scenarios, including direct combat, humanitarian aid, and disaster relief efforts.

The UH-60M model, which is the latest version of the Black Hawk helicopter series, began development in the early 2000s and had its first flight in September 2003. Initial low-rate production started in 2005, and full-rate production was approved in December 2007 following successful evaluations. The UH-60M incorporates modernized systems and enhancements, designed for various military operations. It features a digital cockpit with four multifunction displays, a fully coupled four-axis autopilot, and advanced avionics to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency. The helicopter is powered by upgraded T700-GE-701D engines, providing increased power and lift capability, suitable for missions including troop transport, logistical support, medical evacuation, and special operations.

Key features of the UH-60M include improved rotor blades for enhanced lift and performance compared to earlier models. The helicopter is equipped with advanced flight control systems, including a fly-by-wire system, to improve maneuverability and stability in challenging conditions. Additionally, the UH-60M has a crashworthy and ballistically tolerant fuel system and airframe, designed to increase survivability for the crew and passengers in hostile environments. This model integrates lessons from decades of operational use and combat experience.

The UH-60M Black Hawk is powered by two General Electric T700-GE-701D engines, each providing a maximum power output of 2,000 shaft horsepower. The helicopter features wide-chord composite spar main rotor blades for increased lift capability. Its maximum gross weight is 9,979 kg, and it can carry an external load of up to 4,100 kg. The UH-60M has a top speed of 294 km/h and a range of approximately 320 nautical miles (590 km) without refueling. Its advanced avionics suite includes a fully digitized cockpit with four multifunction displays, a dual digital automatic flight control system, and an integrated vehicle health management system (IVHMS).

The first two Australian UH-60M helicopters arrived at RAAF Richmond via a USAF C-17A in July 2023, with a third delivered in August. (Picture source: Central Queensland Plane Spotting Blog)