U.S. State Department Greenlights $1.95B Sale of UH-60M Black Hawk Helicopters to Greece

The State Department has given approval for a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Greece, involving UH-60M Black Hawk Helicopters and associated equipment, with an estimated cost of $1.95 billion.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) officially notified Congress of this potential sale today.

The Government of Greece has formally requested the acquisition of 35 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, along with 80 T700-GE 701D engines, 44 AN/AAR-57 Common Missile Warning Systems (CMWS), 85 H-764U Embedded Global Position Systems with Inertial Navigation (EGI), and 85 AN/ARC-231A VHF/UHF/LOS SATCOM radio systems. The comprehensive package also includes a range of additional equipment, such as radar systems, communication devices, emergency locator transmitters, and weaponry.

The proposed sale aligns with the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States, aimed at enhancing the security of Greece, a NATO Ally crucial for political stability and economic progress in Europe.

Intended to replace Greece's existing multi-role helicopter fleet, the UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter is expected to offer a more reliable and proven system, enabling Greece to sustain an appropriate level of readiness for combined operations. The deployment of these helicopters is anticipated to enhance the Hellenic Army's capacity to deploy combat power, safeguard borders, and respond effectively to potential threats.

The estimated total cost of $1.95 billion encompasses the helicopters, associated equipment, and an array of logistical and program support elements. The proposed sale is not foreseen to upset the prevailing military balance in the region.

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin Company based in Stratford, CT, is designated as the principal contractor for this potential sale. No offset agreements have been disclosed in connection with this transaction.

The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk functions as a twin-engine, medium-lift utility military helicopter featuring a four-blade configuration.

Manned by a crew of four individuals, including two pilots and two crew chiefs/gunners, this helicopter boasts a maximum flight speed of 159 knots (183 mph or 294 km/h), with a cruise speed of 152 knots (175 mph or 282 km/h). The UH-60M exhibits a combat range of 320 nautical miles (370 miles or 590 km). Armament options for this helicopter include two 7.62 mm (0.30 in) M240 machine guns, two 7.62 mm (0.30 in) M134 miniguns, or two 12.7 mm (0.50 in) GAU-19 Gatling guns.

Equipped with four hardpoints, two of which accommodate ESSS stub wings, the UH-60M has the capability to carry 70 mm (2.75 in) Hydra 70 unguided rockets and can mount AGM-114 Hellfire laser-guided air-to-ground missiles or AIM-92 Stinger heat-seeking air-to-air missiles on each hardpoint. Additionally, the helicopter can be outfitted with the VOLCANO minefield dispersal system.