Originally Posted by
60FltMech
I’m always cynical when talking about how any govt makes decisions when so many angles are considered (valid or not), but maybe if Australia (hopefully) with good success with H-60M, it will help push UK more in that direction?
Regarding the Australian Blackhawks, does anyone know what Australian specific modifications (if any) were incorporated in their order? I assume since the first aircraft have already arrived that they are pretty close to standard US Army spec, it seems like if they had tried to re-invent the wheel with their order the timeline would have been much longer.
As it stands currently all H-60M in Army spec come hoist/wench, external stores and extended range fuel capable, with additional mission equipment available in kit form, so pretty much a turn key solution for most situations it would seem, and I’m sure the domestic Australian aerospace industry is more than capable tackling any modifications needed in future.
FltMech
The first 3 new UH-60M's have arrived , these are the first of 7 fast tracked from US orders to get the Specops role/CT back on line , the main order of the remaining 33 will start delivery in late 24, the first 7 are std US Army spec the remaining 33 with come with Radar, FLIR, ESSS and tanks, Robertson internal tanks and various weapons fits as well as a full EW package , all these mods are fitted in one or other 60 series in US service unlike the S-70A-9's these UH-60M's are compatible with US Army supply system, after the delivery of the last machine the first 7 will be brought up to the std spec of the other 33.
The CH-47F in Aust service are compatible with US Army versions already and tied into the US supply train , only differences being extra comms gear and rotor brake fit, the upcoming AH-64's will be the same with minimal Austalian extras added and once again tied into the US Army supply train.