Aus. Army with Black Hawk helicopter. Source : Department of Defence (Army)
The Australian Army will be picking up US-made Black Hawk helicopters to replace the European Taipan fleet.
The Australian Government has announced they acquisition of 40 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, which has been estimated to cost around $2.8 billion.
Head Land Capability Major General Jeremy King, CSM, said the acquisition will be a beneficial step towards meeting strategic needs.
“The Black Hawk capability will be a crucial element for us to protect Australia’s sovereignty, and deliver foreign policy objectives, including providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,”. Major General King said.
“The Black Hawk will support the deployment of our troops and their equipment where they are needed in times of crisis.
“The Black Hawk is a reliable, proven, and mature platform supported by a robust global supply chain.
“This acquisition will mean we can continue to defend Australia and respond in times of need in a safe and effective way for years to come.” He said.
Defence Minister Richard Marles said the switch was happening because the Army has been struggling with the Taipan fleet for some time.
“We have been struggling with the Taipans for many years, in terms of maintenance issues, getting spare parts.” Mr Marles said.
“We are confident that we can get that from the Black Hawks. It’s a platform we’re familiar with, we’ve operated in different contexts before.” He said.
The Black Hawk fleet will be operated out of Oakey, QLD, and Holsworthy, NSW.
They will be supported by a team of highly skilled maintenance workers, which include Australian industry contractors.
The Australian industry is set to be involved in logistic support, warehousing services, training development, and engineering services.
The Australian industry is also set to be involved in the Black Hawk’s global supply chain.
The Department of Defence said the acquisition “will not only support the capability, but also maximise Australian industry participation, laying a foundation for future helicopter industry growth across the service life of the helicopter.”
The Black Hawks are set to begin delivery in 2023.
The replacement of the Taipan fleet is happening much earlier than originally scheduled.
