Bushranger71
What supposed gunner positions blocking cabin space in the Blackhawk are you referring to? I've flown the H model Huey and the Pavehawk, I dont' really see any difference in cabin space, except that the space between the gunners is not blocked by the transmission in the hawk.
From what I can tell, the hawk is basically a duplicate of the huey, with improvements due to combat experience. Sure, it's heavier (about double in empty weight, both empty and max gross and it has about double the fuel burn as well as capacity) but one troop weighs about one troop weighs and all the extra equipment weighs what it weighs.
I'm more than impressed with what Bell has done to lengthen the lifeline of the Huey, but I just don't see how it offers any significant advantage unless you're currently operating an H model and are looking for a cost effective upgrade.