29/09/2025
Australian Army – Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk (A60-002) was observed conducting multiple approach and departure circuits over RAAF Base Richmond recently.
The UH-60M is the Army’s newest battlefield helicopter, replacing the MRH-90 Taipan under the LAND 4507 program. Aircraft A60-002 is among the first batch delivered to Australia earlier this year, marking a major step in enhancing the Army’s rotary-wing capability.
Training circuits at Richmond allow Army aviators to familiarise themselves with the new platform, practice approach profiles, and integrate operations at a major RAAF base.
The UH-60M Black Hawk brings enhanced performance and versatility to Army Aviation, with features including:
Crew: 2 pilots + up to 11 troops
Powerplant: 2 × General Electric T700-GE-701D turboshaft engines
Maximum speed: ~295 km/h (159 knots)
Range: ~590 km (extendable with auxiliary tanks)
Service ceiling: 19,000 ft
Primary roles: air assault, troop transport, medevac, special operations support, and disaster relief
The Black Hawk’s introduction provides the Australian Army with a proven, reliable, and highly interoperable helicopter platform, ensuring readiness for both domestic missions and joint operations with allied forces.
Australian Army Defence Australia 16th Aviation Brigade - Australian Army