Army's fleet of UH-60M Black Hawks have achieved initial operating capability (IOC) fifteen months after the first aircraft began flying in Australia.
"The acquisition of these Black Hawks is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teams across Defence and industry who have worked tirelessly to bring this capability into service," said the Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy.
The IOC declaration certifies that the Black Hawk fleet are able to support counter-terrorism operations. It also means that the Black Hawks can now perform some of the missions previously undertaken by Army's fleet of now-retired MRH-90 Taipans.
“Their rapid delivery also demonstrates the strength of our alliance with the United States. We thank them for the tremendous support they have provided in delivering this important capability for our Defence Force and for Australia.”
Seven more Black Hawks will arrive in-country this year, with all 40 aircraft to be delivered by 2030.