Australia’s army has outlined progress introducing the Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter, with a range of training activities under way.
Training work on the type, which was introduced in August 2023, has included essential platform and special operations work, according to Australia’s Department of Defence.
November will see the rotorcraft involved in counter-terrorism training in the greater Sydney region.
Initial operational capability is expected “in the coming months”.
So far, 10 examples have been delivered, with an additional pair due in November. The army will have its full complement of 40 helicopters by 2030.
“The Black Hawk provides army with the modern, credible and sustainable aviation capability it needs to meet the contemporary challenges of warfare,” says Australian army Major General Stephen Jobson.
“This specialised, complex training will ensure our soldiers and aviators are able to rapidly respond to domestic emergencies and potential security threats.”
In January 2023 Canberra, under its LAND 4507-01 programme, confirmed that it would order 40 UH-60Ms through the US government’s Foreign Military Sales process.
The Black Hawks are the replacement for the NH Industries MRH90 Taipan – the local designation for the NH90 – a type that suffered a troubled history in Australian service.
Parts harvested from the former Australian MRH90 fleet have made their way into the support system for other NH90 operators.
