DefenseLithuanian Armed Forces Receive First Two UH-60M Black Hawks
The Lithuanian Air Force received the first two Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters on October 19. The aircraft arrived as part of a 2020 order for four units intended to modernize the nation’s rotary-wing capabilities.
The acquisition is part of a €181 million contract with the US Department of Defense. Lithuania is updating its fleet in response to elevated regional security concerns following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
The UH-60Ms delivered are equipped with GE T700-GE-701D engines, GPS, autopilot, and night vision systems. They feature a maximum speed of 355 km/h, a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 10 tonnes, and can carry a crew of four plus up to 11 troops.
The helicopters are intended to replace Soviet-era Mi-8s and will operate alongside existing Eurocopter AS365 Dauphins. Their operational flexibility covers transport, search and rescue, firefighting, and medical evacuation missions.
Each UH-60M is armed with two 7.62 mm M240H machine guns and can achieve up to 1,300 km operational range with auxiliary fuel tanks. Over 30 countries, including NATO members and regional neighbors such as Latvia, currently operate the UH-60M type.
Lithuania expects delivery of two additional UH-60Ms in 2026. The country has also confirmed procurement of Embraer C-390 Millennium transport aircraft as part of ongoing defense modernization.
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