Fri, Aug 22, 2025
$43M For Airframe Improvements, UAS Integration Capability
Sikorsky announced it has been awarded a new contract by the U.S. Army for engineering work leading to modernization of its UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The initial $43 million deal is on basic work needed for modernization, including enhancement of the airframe, development of requirements and architecture through model-based systems engineering, and development of the digital framework for integration of unmanned aircraft systems.
The contract supports near-term Army priorities to integrate launched effects into the Black Hawk that enable the aircraft to deploy UAS and other effects that enhance its mission capabilities.
Sikorsky’s parent company Lockheed Martin has been demonstrating launched effects capability with the helicopter for some years now and is working with the Army to deliver a federated capability in 2026.
Hamid Salim, Vice President for Army and Air Force Systems at Sikorsky said, “Sikorsky is ready to implement new technologies that will strengthen the combat-proven Black Hawk helicopter and give U.S. Army soldiers greater advantage in areas like the Indo-Pacific.
“Integrating launched effects into the Black Hawk will enhance its capabilities and provide a significant advantage. Modernization is reducing costs, increasing efficiency and improving the overall maintenance and sustainment for the aircraft.”
Under this contract, the work on airframe enhancements, main fuel, and digital backbone for integrating UAS will form the framework for further rapid updates. The digital backbone will support a Modular Open System Approach, or MOSA, and involves the development of advanced systems and software for the modernization efforts. The MOSA-aligned backbone will facilitate rapid future platform capabilities for mission needs.
Salim continued, “Together with our team of hundreds of American suppliers, we are committed to delivering the most advanced and capable modernized Black Hawk to the U.S. Army. We look forward to continuing our work with the Army to ensure that the Black Hawk remains a vital component of our nation's defense capabilities for years to come.”
More News
Option Approach An approach requested and conducted by a pilot which will result in either a touch-and-go, missed approach, low approach, stop-and-go, or full stop landing. Pilots >[...]
"Emirates is already the world's largest Boeing 777 operator, and we are expanding our commitment to the program today with additional orders for 65 Boeing 777-9s. This is a long-t>[...]
(Pilot) Reported That There Was A Sudden And Violent Vibration Throughout The Airplane That Lasted Several Seconds Analysis: The pilot was returning to his home airport at an altit>[...]
“This recognition was evident during the TBMOPA Annual Convention, where owners and operators clearly expressed their satisfaction with our focus on customer service, and enc>[...]
Overhead Maneuver A series of predetermined maneuvers prescribed for aircraft (often in formation) for entry into the visual flight rules (VFR) traffic pattern and to proceed to a >[...]
ANN's Daily Aero-Term (11.19.25): Option Approach
See All