Sikorsky Secures $52 Million U.S. Army Contract for HH-60M Black Hawk Helicopters.

The U.S. Army has awarded a $52 million contract to Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, for the procurement of additional HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters. This variant, specifically designed for medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) operations, is equipped with advanced General Electric engines and state-of-the-art digital avionics, enhancing situational awareness, survivability, and overall performance, making it a crucial asset for the U.S. Army's emergency response missions.
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In addition to its performance capabilities, the HH-60M is outfitted with a medical evacuation equipment package, including onboard oxygen generation and a reconfigurable interior that can accommodate up to six patients, along with the crew and flight medics (Picture source: US DoD)

The HH-60M "Mike" Black Hawk is an advanced version of the UH-60M, tailored for MEDEVAC missions. Built by Sikorsky Aircraft, this helicopter incorporates cutting-edge technology, enabling it to operate effectively in challenging environments, including combat zones and disaster relief operations.

 Its fully digital cockpit replaces traditional gauges with multifunction displays, improving the situational awareness of pilots and crew, which is vital for safe operations in complex scenarios. Additionally, the helicopter is equipped with dual digital flight control systems, real-time mapping, advanced communication systems, and GPS/inertial navigation, enhancing its capability to conduct missions in adverse weather conditions, day or night.

Performance-wise, the HH-60M is powered by two T700-GE-701E engines with FADEC technology, providing increased power, better cruising speed, improved climbing capacity, and greater lift. The helicopter can reach speeds of about 140 kilometers per hour and has a range of 275 nautical miles, which can be extended with external fuel tanks. These features make the HH-60M a versatile platform capable of handling personnel transport, aerial reconnaissance, search and rescue, and even firefighting missions.

In addition to its performance capabilities, the HH-60M is outfitted with a medical evacuation equipment package, including onboard oxygen generation and a reconfigurable interior that can accommodate up to six patients, along with the crew and flight medics. This model is currently used by the U.S. Army and other armed forces worldwide due to its ability to respond quickly to emergencies in hostile environments. Since its introduction, several hundred HH-60M units have been produced for the U.S. Army, with production continuing to meet the increasing demands for MEDEVAC and transport missions in conflict zones.

The helicopters ordered under this contract will be manufactured at Sikorsky's facility in Connecticut, with completion expected by June 2027. Although the exact number of helicopters ordered has not been disclosed, this contract is part of the Army's broader plan to acquire up to 419 HH-60M helicopters by 2026, significantly expanding its MEDEVAC fleet. Sikorsky has been a long-standing supplier of Black Hawk helicopters to the U.S. Army, having delivered over 100 units by 2012.