Argentina’s Ministry of Defense has signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) with the United States to procure four UH-60L Black Hawk utility helicopters for the Argentine Army.
The acquisition is being pursued through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme. The US State Department had previously approved the potential $140 million sale, which included two T700-GE-701D engines, communication and navigation equipment, rescue hoists, and logistical support.
However, following negotiations in the United States, Argentina’s Defense Ministry reported that the cost of the initial four helicopters had been reduced to approximately $28 million, including spare parts and supplies.
According to the ministry, the Sikorsky-built helicopters will establish the foundation of a new tactical air mobility capability for the Argentine Army. Their introduction is expected to enhance operational range, force protection, interoperability, and rapid response capabilities across military missions, search-and-rescue operations, and emergency response activities.
The first helicopter is scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026.
UH-60 Black Hawk: Technical Overview
Developed by Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin
The UH-60 Black Hawk is a multirole utility helicopter measuring approximately 64 feet (20 metres) in length, with a rotor diameter of 54 feet (16 metres). It can accommodate up to 11 personnel.
The aircraft offers an internal payload capacity of 3,190 pounds (1,447 kilograms) and can transport external cargo weighing up to 9,000 pounds (4,082 kilograms).
Depending on mission requirements, the helicopter can be equipped with M240 7.62mm machine guns, M134 7.62mm miniguns, and GAU-19 12.7mm Gatling guns. Its additional weapon options include Hellfire and Stinger missiles, along with Hydra 70mm unguided rockets.
The helicopter is powered by two General Electric T700-GE-701C/D turboshaft engines, each delivering up to 1,900 horsepower. It can achieve a maximum speed of 160 knots (185 mph / 296 km/h), with a reported operational range of 1,200 nautical miles (1,381 miles / 2,222 km) and a service ceiling of 19,000 feet (5,791 metres).
Argentina-Specific Modifications
The Argentine Ministry of Defense stated that the helicopters will incorporate customised equipment to strengthen operational range, communications, interoperability, and flight safety.
The planned upgrades include:
– Garmin GTN 750 GPS navigation systems.
– Attitude and Heading Reference Systems (AHRS).
– Multiband High-Frequency (HF) radios.
– Very-High-Frequency (VHF) communication systems.
– Ultra-High-Frequency (UHF) radios.
These modifications are intended to improve the helicopters’ suitability for Argentina’s military mobility, rescue, and emergency response requirements.
