The Australian Government will acquire 40 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters to replace the Australian Army’s decommissioned MRH-90 Taipan helicopters.
As already announced since the end of 2021, the Australian Army, after years of struggling with the multitude of issues with logistics, parts quality and software that affected the availability and flight safety of its fleet of MRH-90 Taipan helicopters, decided that it was no longer worth continuing to invest in them and that they would be replaced by the U.S.-origin UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.
See also: Sweden also wants to replace its NH90 fleet with Black Hawks
In a press release issued today, the Australian Department of Defense formally announced the selection of the Black Hawk as a replacement for the Taipan.
Head Land Capability Major General Jeremy King, CSM, said this was an important acquisition which will meet the strategic needs of the Australian Army.
“The Black Hawk capability will be a crucial element for us to protect Australia’s sovereignty, and deliver foreign policy objectives, including providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,” Major General King said.
“The Black Hawk will support the deployment of our troops and their equipment where they are needed in times of crisis. The Black Hawk is a reliable, proven and mature platform supported by a robust global supply chain.
“This acquisition will mean we can continue to defend Australia and respond in times of need in a safe and effective way for years to come.”
The Black Hawk will operate from Oakey, QLD and Holsworthy, NSW, supported by a highly skilled, blended maintenance workforce including Australian industry contractors.
Australian industry will be involved in logistic support, warehousing services, training development and engineering services, as well in the aircraft’s global supply chain.
This will not only support the capability, but also maximise Australian industry participation, laying a foundation for future helicopter industry growth across the service life of the helicopter.
Delivery of the Black Hawk helicopters will commence this year.
