Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk
in
Australian Army Aviation

The Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk was reintroduced into Australian service beginning in mid-2023 as a replacement for the MRH90 Taipan fleet, which was withdrawn earlier than originally planned. Operated by the Australian Army, the UH-60M is assigned primarily to the 6th Aviation Regiment at Holsworthy and the Army Aviation Training Centre at Oakey, forming the core of the Army’s renewed rotary-wing utility capability.

Selected for its proven operational record and modern digital cockpit, the UH-60M “Mike” variant provides a versatile platform for missions including counter-terrorism, special operations, troop transport, and medical evacuation. Its rapid induction reflected a priority to restore reliable and deployable lift capacity while maintaining interoperability with allied forces, particularly the United States.

To sustain the fleet, the Australian Government signed a five-year Integrated Support Contract in early 2024 with Lockheed Martin Australia, designating it as the primary maintainer responsible for engineering support, logistics, and domestic maintenance. The program includes a planned acquisition of 40 aircraft, with initial operating capability declared in February 2025 after the delivery of the first 12 helicopters and the accumulation of approximately 1,400 flight hours. Deliveries are scheduled to continue through 2029, ensuring the UH-60M remains a cornerstone of Australia’s military aviation capability for the foreseeable future.

As of late April 2026, 19 of the 40 aircraft have already been delivered.