Lithuania is set to receive the first two of its four UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter orders by the end of 2025, with the rest expected to arrive in 2026. The order was originally scheduled for a late 2024 delivery.
Once the UH-60M arrives, Vilnius will be joining a long list of European nations that turn to the Black Hawk as they shift away from using Russian-made Mil helicopters. Croatia, Poland and Romania are among those already using the aircraft.
Building Defense Capacity
The latest helicopter order forms part of Lithuania’s growing investment to fortify its defense capabilities amid growing political instability in the region. During her visit to The Hague in January, Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene said that her government is nearing reaching 4 percent of its gross domestic product defense spending and is exploring options to expand its defense budget.
The Black Hawk is a rugged, versatile aircraft built to meet the needs of military applications. It can carry up to 12 individuals or 9,000 pounds of supplies. The Sikorsky aircraft includes a large, highly configurable cabin and twin GE T700 power turbine engines.
Black Hawk Training and Support
While the Lithuanian air force awaits the first two Black Hawks, the service branch is collaborating with several partners to train and allow pilots and technicians to familiarize themselves with the aircraft. The Pennsylvania Army National Guard has been a major collaborator for the past eight years, providing Lithuanian warfighters an opportunity to experience hands-on and observe the Black Hawk maintenance process.
The military branch is also building a system capable of supporting its Black Hawk needs. Poland, Latvia and Slovakia, as well as helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky and the Helicopter Alliance, are among those that compose the group.