Australia and Greece have recently made significant strides in modernising their defense capabilities with the UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter.
These procurements aim to replace ageing fleets and strengthen each country’s armed forces, signaling a new era of aviation capability for both nations.
Sikorsky and the Australian Department of Defence (DoD) have provided updates on the progress of UH-60M Black Hawk procurement and fleet integration.
In Australia, the Army is moving forward with the helicopter’s induction, with several training exercises already in progress, including first-of-class flight trials. The fleet has already accumulated over 1,400 flight hours, supporting the Black Hawk’s gradual integration. According to the DoD, Australia expects to achieve initial operational capability in the coming months.
Since August 2023, ten Black Hawks have been delivered, with an additional two expected by November 2024, and the remaining 40 scheduled for delivery by 2030.
Greece, meanwhile, has formalised its acquisition of 35 UH-60M Black Hawks, complementing its MH-60R and S-70B helicopter fleets. The Hellenic Navy is set to enhance its operational capabilities through the deployment of these versatile aircraft, known for their multi-mission flexibility.
Sikorsky’s VP of Army and Air Force Systems, Hamid Salim, expressed appreciation for Greece’s long-standing trust in Sikorsky helicopters, emphasising the strategic value of an integrated “Hawk family” fleet for national security and humanitarian operations.
Both Australia and Greece’s Black Hawk orders aim to replace older helicopter models: Australia’s Taipan MRH-90s and Greece’s Bell UH-1s.
Recently, Sikorsky also received a US$1.2 billion contract modification to support Foreign Military Sales, which includes commitments to Australia, Greece, and several other nations. This work is set to conclude by December 2027 at Sikorsky’s facility in Stratford, Connecticut.
