The Latvian MoD is considering a foreign military sales acquisition of four Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, the US Defense Security Co-operation Agency said on August 3, 2018.
The $200 million deal would include four helicopters, to be completed in standard US government coniguration, together with ten General Electric T700-GE-701D engines (eight installed and two spares). In a statement issued by the Latvian MoD on August 20, 2018, the government said that, after evaluating available medium-lift utility helicopters, it was concluded that the UH- 60M best matched National Armed Force military and civilian requirements. It also revealed that the first helicopter would be delivered in 2021.
The statement said: “The key advantage of the UH-60M Black Hawk is its build and life cycle. Acquisition of such rotorcraft would ensure compatibility with the US forces stationed in the region and would allow the continuation of joint training programmes between military units. …The US government will provide crucial long-term assistance, helping National Armed Forces learn how to operate the aircraft and use the associated equipment. US Army Black Hawk helicopter units have been rotating to Lielvārde Air Base since 2015, which will ensure that the introduction by the Latvian military will be a lot smoother.” Nigel Pittaway
