The US Air Force intends to modernize the communications system on its HH-60W Jolly Green II combat search-and-rescue helicopters by replacing the existing Link-16 TacNet Tactical Radio with a multi-channel radio capable of operating Link 16 and VHF/UHF voice communications simultaneously.
An Air Force notice states that the current radio system supplied by Data Link Solutions may be replaced with the KOR-24A Small Tactical Terminal from L3Harris Technologies. The proposed upgrade aims to meet new operational requirements related to enhanced capabilities and modern cryptographic standards that the existing radio cannot support.
According to L3Harris, the KOR-24A STT is a compact multi-channel terminal that enables Link 16 connectivity while allowing secure voice and real-time tactical data exchange with other networked platforms. The system can simultaneously run Link 16 alongside VHF/UHF communications or operate two VHF/UHF channels at once. It also maintains compatibility with legacy waveforms such as SINCGARS, Have Quick II, and conventional VHF/UHF AM/FM communications.
With this upgrade, HH-60W helicopters would be able to maintain continuous Link 16 situational awareness with fighter aircraft and airborne command platforms while simultaneously communicating with isolated personnel or ground units without switching communication modes.
Originally, the Air Force planned to acquire 113 HH-60W helicopters to replace its aging fleet of HH-60G Pave Hawk rescue helicopters, but the acquisition plan was later reduced to approximately 85 aircraft. The HH-60W is based on the Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk platform and incorporates a modern communications suite featuring wideband UHF, narrowband satellite communications, Link 16 connectivity, a video data link, situational awareness data link, and automatic dependent surveillance–broadcast capability.
The aircraft also includes an advanced flight director and improved autopilot system designed to automate critical flight maneuvers such as hover hold and go-arounds, helping reduce pilot workload during rescue operations. Compared with the HH-60G, the HH-60W provides better performance in hot-and-high environments, a larger cabin space, and nearly double the internal fuel capacity, enabling longer-range and more effective combat search-and-rescue missions. 🚁
