Australia receives initial Batch of UH-60M Black Hawks.

Australian Defence Force (ADF) received the first delivery of three UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters. The Australian Defence Department announced the arrival of these helicopters via Twitter on August 22, 2023, highlighting their role in modernizing the country's aviation assets.

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 The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has received its first three UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters (Picture source: Australia DoD)

The delivery, carried out by two U.S. Air Force C-17A Globemaster III aircraft, marks the commencement of a planned fleet of 40 UH-60M Black Hawks. The helicopters landed in Sydney and are slated to undergo a brief testing phase before being declared operational later this year.

Lockheed Martin Australia CEO Warren McDonald welcomed the selection of the Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk for the Australian Army under LAND 4507-1. McDonald stated that "The UH-60M Black Hawk is known for its durability, reliability, and proven utility. Australia's acquisition of these helicopters underscores our nation's ongoing military collaboration with the U.S. and allied nations. The addition of the Black Hawk is expected to enhance joint operations and contribute to the security of Australia and the Indo-Pacific region."

The UH-60M model, an upgraded version of the UH-60L, was developed in 2001 to extend the service life of the UH-60 design. The UH-60M features upgraded T700-GE-701D engines, improved rotor blades, and modern electronic instrumentation, flight controls, and aircraft navigation systems. Manufacturing of the new variant began in 2006, with the first deliveries in July of the same year. Following an initial operational evaluation, the U.S. Army approved full-rate production, leading to a contract for 1,227 helicopters in 2007.

Designed by Sikorsky, the UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters aim to enhance Australia's multi-role helicopter capabilities and replace the existing non-Black Hawk multi-role helicopter fleet. These helicopters are expected to provide a more reliable system capable of fulfilling a variety of mission requirements.

Renowned for its durability, survivability, and adaptability, the Black Hawk helicopter has demonstrated its effectiveness in numerous operational scenarios. Its track record has led to its adoption by Australia and 34 other countries worldwide.