While the latest US Army deal may push new aircraft lead times out further. The BEST programe continues to ensure a supply of UH-60s for second life operations like AFF. Image: Aerotech
In what it calls a “novel production agreement”, Sikorsky has signed a deal with the US Army which will allow the service to acquire over 100 more UH-60s beyond an initial tranche of 16 firm orders. The deal allows the Army to add aircraft to the order as it’s and those of allied militaries develop.
The funds for the initial 16 helicopters have been drawn from appropriations for the fiscal years 2025 and 2026 as well as revenues from the Black Hawk Exchange and Sales Transaction (BEST) programme which has seen the service divest the older aircraft in its inventory, primarily to civil operators for a second life in a number of roles including aerial firefighting and disaster relief.
The contract announcement comes a couple of months earlier than than the expected year of year expectation that the Department of Defence had previously announced which Sikorsky says comes as it and the D0D moved to put a more flexible structure that would allow a more “dynamic acquisition environment”.
“This contract is not only fast but flexible. We’ve come to this structure to give the Army flexibility as their needs and budget change year-to-year, while maintaining a vehicle that can support FMS demand. This agreement turns a partner‑nation decision into aircraft on the ramp faster than conventional procurement allows,” said Rich Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager.
“This contract ensures we maintain a ready, modern and survivable rotary‑wing capability for the Army and our allies. The Black Hawk has long been a vital part of the Army and National Guard’s flexibility and will continue to be so for the next half century,” added Col. Ryan Nesrsta, Project Manager for the Utility Helicopters Project Office.”
