"We're simply taking a customer's existing aircraft and outfitting it for a different purpose ... and then removing a variety of components, like the cockpit," a Sikorsky official told reporters.
“If the mil-to-mil relationship can be salvaged and can be kept, that's worthwhile and that's meritorious,” Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart told Breaking Defense.
Onshoring and investment in military-specific semiconductors anchor a cornerstone of the defense industrial base.
The service has previously said that the next buy of the UH-60Ms will be its last, but Brig. Gen. David Phillips said he foresees the fleet operating in the Army through the 2040s and 50s.
With a demonstrated ability to integrate capabilities in hours with MOSA, Black Hawk can give the Army a decisive advantage across theaters.
The role of rotary wing aircraft in a 21st century security environment include operations in multi-domain operations and Joint All Domain Command and Control.
With a MOSA-enabled backbone, the ITEP engine, launched effects, and autonomy, the Black Hawk helicopter would be well-suited to both near-peer conflict and all-domain operations.
Why edge and endpoint security can’t be an afterthought.
A look at some of what this year's SOF Week conference in Tampa had to offer.
In addition to halting the FARA competition, service leaders want to end UH-60 V Blackhawk production, postpone moving the Improved Turbine Engine Program into production, and phase out legacy drones.
"When the tough but necessary decision was made last year to expedite the withdrawal of the MRH-90s [Taipans] from service, it meant that we needed to look at all options when it came to filling the capability gap and the training which our servicemen and women need,” Defense Minister Richard Marles said in a statement.
After keeping mum on the issue for weeks, minister for defense procurement Pat Conroy said Kyiv's request came too late, months after the helos had been destined for disposal.
It's been a whirlwind of a year — and the defense establishment has plenty of thoughts on how it's unfolded and what might come next.
Next up will be the first test flight with the fully integrated prototype that will add in the payloads and mission system.
"Having high quality local capabilities supported by the OEM [original equipment manufacturer], will help reduce lead times significantly and translate into better service and availability for the UAE," a Sikorksy official said.