Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has received a $43 million U.S. Army contract to fund modernization engineering efforts for the Black Hawk® helicopter. The contract focuses on airframe enhancements and the development of a digital backbone to enable rapid integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and other launched effects as well as requirements development and architecture using model-based systems engineering (MBSE).

Hamid Salim, vice president of Army and Air Force Systems at Sikorsky, highlighted that the modernization effort will strengthen the combat-proven Black Hawk, providing soldiers with greater operational advantage particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. “Integrating launched effects into the Black Hawk will enhance its capabilities and provide a significant advantage. Modernization is reducing costs, increasing efficiency and improving overall maintenance and sustainment for the aircraft,” he said.

The initial contract will support the Army’s near-term priority to integrate launched effects, enabling the aircraft to deploy UAS and other mission-enhancing payloads. Sikorsky has been demonstrating launched effects capabilities for years and plans to deliver a federated capability by 2026.

The MBSE and digital engineering work will develop a digital thread for collaborative design, testing and maintenance, supporting a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). This digital backbone allows for rapid capability insertion to respond to evolving mission needs.

Planned airframe enhancements, main fuel upgrades and a more powerful engine will allow the Black Hawk to carry more payload over greater range, while future flight control upgrades—including autonomy and AI features—aim to improve pilot performance, safety and mission effectiveness.

Sikorsky is already deploying technology to improve current and modernized Black Hawks, including upturned exhaust systems II kits, which enhance infrared suppression, reduce weight and improve reliability and maintainability.

Salim concluded, “Together with our team of hundreds of American suppliers, we are committed to delivering the most advanced and capable modernized Black Hawk to the U.S. Army. We look forward to continuing our work to ensure the Black Hawk remains a vital component of our nation’s defence capabilities for years to come.”