Lithuania’s Black Hawks set to strengthen rapid response capability

Lithuania’s new fleet of UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters has arrived and is now ready to fly, representing a significant upgrade to the Lithuanian armed forces’ air mobility and rescue capability. Purchased from the USA in 2020, these modern helicopters replace the country’s aging Soviet-era Mil Mi-8s and mark a decisive shift to Western-standard rotorcraft.

The deal, signed in November 2020, covers four UH-60M helicopters with associated equipment, spares, training, and logistical support. The Lithuanian Ministry of National Defense emphasized that the acquisition was “one of the most critical elements in the modernization and enhancement of the Lithuanian armed forces”.

The UH-60M platform offers enhanced versatility for both military and civilian missions. Key performance data include a maximum speed of approximately 355km/h, a service ceiling near 5,800m, a takeoff weight of about 10 tons, and a range of up to 1,300km when fitted with auxiliary fuel. The aircraft carries a crew of four and up to 11 troops, and is equipped with twin GE T700-701D engines, GPS/autopilot systems, and optional armament. These features enable it to fulfill troop transport, cargo lift, search and rescue (SAR), firefighting, and medical evacuation (medevac) roles.

Lithuania’s adoption of the Black Hawk enhances interoperability with NATO partners, many of whom already operate the platform. The shift away from the Mi-8s not only strengthens the country’s logistical and rapid-response capability but also brings modern maintenance advantages. With the new helicopters now in service, Lithuania is poised to conduct a wider range of missions more quickly and efficiently.

Last year, Croatia purchased eight UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.