Austria orders 12 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters

Austria signed a contract for the purchase of twelve UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters for the Austrian Armed Forces.

“With the purchase of the UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, we are making significant progress in improving our operational capability,” Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner said. “These versatile aircraft […] will be invaluable to us in a wide range of operational scenarios, particularly in challenging mountainous regions and under extreme weather conditions. “

The procurement, part of the US Army’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, includes logistical services, mission equipment, and necessary training for pilots and technicians. The planned budget for the complete package is €715 million. 

The new helicopters will be stationed in Hörsching and are expected to serve the Austrian Air Force for at least 30 years. 

Deliveries will begin in 2028, replacing the aging fleet of 22 Agusta Bell AB212 helicopters by 2030. The Austrian Armed Forces already operates 12 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.

The UH-60M Black Hawk, renowned for its versatility and reliability since its introduction in 1974, will enhance Austria’s capabilities in air transport, patient transport, evacuations, special forces operations, parachutist drop-offs, and aerial firefighting. 

The helicopter boasts a range of approximately 590 kilometers (370 miles), extendable to around 2,200 kilometers (1370 miles) with additional fuel tanks, a top speed of 300 kilometers (190 miles) per hour, and a maximum flight altitude of around 6,000 meters (20,000 feet).The post Austria orders 12 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters appeared first on AeroTime.

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