US Clears Norway for $2.3 Billion UH-60M Black Hawk Acquisition

The U.S. State Department has authorized a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Norway for 21 UH-60M Black Hawk utility helicopters, along with associated equipment and support, valued at an estimated $2.3 billion. This significant approval, communicated via a congressional notification from the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, paves the way for a substantial upgrade to Norway’s rotary-wing capabilities.

The comprehensive package requested by Norway includes the 21 UH-60M aircraft, powered by 46 T700-GE-701D engines. Of these engines, 42 are designated for installation on the helicopters, with an additional four serving as critical spares. Beyond the airframes and propulsion, the deal encompasses a robust suite of mission systems and armaments.

Key defense systems integrated into the Black Hawks will include 25 AN/AAR-57 Common Missile Warning Systems (CMWS), 25 Infrared Countermeasure Systems, and 25 AN/APR-39E(V)2 Radar Warning Receivers. For advanced navigation, 50 EAGLE-M+429 GPS/Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) are part of the acquisition, alongside 100 communication radios to ensure seamless command and control. The weaponization aspect includes 18 M240H machine guns, with provisions for external weapon mounting systems to accommodate M240, M134, and M3M/GAU-21 machine guns, enhancing the helicopters’ offensive and defensive capabilities.

The UH-60M fleet is designed to feature LINK-16 data link capability, a crucial element for interoperability with U.S. and other allied forces during joint operations. This technological integration aims to bolster Norway’s ability to conduct networked warfare alongside its international partners.

According to the U.S. State Department, this potential sale is critical for enhancing Norway’s capacity to counter existing and emerging threats. The UH-60M Black Hawks are anticipated to significantly augment the independent operational capabilities of the Norwegian Army and Special Operations Forces, simultaneously fostering a common helicopter platform across these critical branches. The U.S. government emphasizes that this procurement will strengthen Norway’s interoperability with U.S. and allied militaries, without altering the fundamental military balance in the region.

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is identified as the prime contractor for this potential Foreign Military Sale.

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