The Brazilian Army is buying 12-16 new Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters to replace older ones in its 2nd, 3rd, and 4th BAVEx units.
These new helicopters can carry and launch advanced missiles and rockets, which is important for operations in the Amazon and central-western regions.
The goal is to update the fleet, not make it bigger.
The old helicopters will be retired in 2024, and the new ones will start in the second half of 2025. Two new helicopters will be delivered each year until 2029.
The Black Hawks in the 4th BAVEx have been used for 30 years by 2025, and the Cougar MK.8s for 22 years.
These are the only helicopters in the Army Aviation fleet that have not been updated.
This means they are harder and more expensive to keep working because of their old technology and engines.
This important update will make sure the fleet is ready to work. The old helicopters will be used for spare parts for the HM-2 and HM-3 helicopters still in use.
During the testing phase, the Brazilian Army liked the Black Hawk better than other models from Leonardo and Bell.
In 2023, after a change in government, the new Brazilian Army Commander, General Tomás Miguel Ribeiro Paiva, said publicly that “new helicopters for the Amazon are a priority.”
This made the helicopter purchase more important than other Army programs.
THE SIKORSKY UH-60M
The Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk is a modern, multi-mission helicopter used by military forces worldwide.
It features advanced avionics and a more powerful engine. The UH-60M provides enhanced performance and lower operating costs.
It is capable of carrying heavy loads and conducting precision maneuvers in challenging environments.