Lockheed Martin’s [LMT] Sikorsky aircraft manufacturer will help bring in ten Black Hawks to Australia for fire relief efforts with a $50.3 million deal program to refurbish ex-U.S. military UH-60 helicopters.
The deal with Kaan Air Australia and StarFlight Australia, announced July 27, will see ten helicopters brought to a refurbishment center in Brisbane, where the Black Hawks will be repurposed for aerial firebombing operations to aid with future bushfire control and disaster relief efforts. There is an option for an additional delivery of ten more UH-60s as needed.
“This is a game-changer for aviation in Australia. The purchase of 10 plus 10 optioned Black Hawks represents a significant milestone for the firebombing and disaster relief helicopter industry in Australia, particularly in terms of efficient rotary wing attack to reduce loss of life and property during bushfire events,” CEO of Kaan Air Australia and StarFlight Australia John Skeen said in a statement. “The helicopters are being purchased by an Australian company, will be registered in Australia and most importantly, will be fully maintained and supported in Australia by the helicopter OEM (original equipment manufacturer) Sikorsky and its supply chain commitment, helping to boost local jobs in the area and guaranteeing ongoing supply chain support of our Black Hawk fleet.”
At the Brisbane refurbishment facility, the Black Hawks will receive new engines, upgraded gear boxes and will be installed with a new Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System.
StarFlight Australia will be the operator for the aircraft upon completion of the refurbishment program. In 2015, StarFlight and Kaan Air Australia established a joint venture called LifeFlight Australia to handle helicopter rescue programs.