U.S. Army mulls fleet optimization, plans to retire 157 Black Hawks to prioritize advanced choppers

U.S. Army is set to reduce its UH-60 Black Hawk utility helicopter fleet by nearly 8%, with plans to cut approximately 157 Black Hawks from its active-duty component. Major General Mac McCurry, commander of Army’s Aviation Center of Excellence, revealed that this move aims to optimize current fleet while budgeting for replacement, FLRAA, expected in early 2030s. 

Notably, U.S. Army is trimming its UH-60 Black Hawk utility helicopter fleet by approximately 7.5%, amounting to around 157 helicopters. Major General Mac McCurry emphasized that this decision aligns with Army's commitment to balancing current reiness while making room in budget for Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA), set to replace aging Black Hawks.  

Prioritizing newer models and reducing overall fleet age  

U.S. Army's decision to cut 157 Black Hawk helicopters from its active-duty component focuses on retiring oldest models, specifically Alpha and Lima variants. Major General Mac McCurry clarified that se retirements would not impact units actively deploying but rar target older models in "operational reiness floats," contributing to fleet optimization and reducing long-term maintenance challenges.

As part of its fleet reduction, U.S. Army intends to sell retired Black Hawk helicopters through Foreign Military Sales transactions or exchange and sales programs. Each aircraft is expected to fetch approximately $2 million. Major General Mac McCurry emphasized that this financial strategy aligns with Army's overall plan to optimize resources while preparing for future acquisitions like FLRAA. 

Army to upgre Mike-model Black Hawks  

Despite reduction in Black Hawk fleet, U.S. Army remains committed to upgring its Mike-model helicopters, latest variant in Black Hawk series. Major General Mac McCurry highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance capabilities of existing fleet, demonstrating Army's dedication to maintaining a technologically vanced and efficient helicopter force.  

In dition to Black Hawk fleet reduction, U.S. Army is planning to evaluate size of its CH-47 Chinook cargo fleet. Major General Mac McCurry emphasized importance of aligning fleet with overall force structure and end strength. This strategic review reflects Army's commitment to optimizing its aviation assets for future operational requirements. 

While conducting reviews of helicopter fleets, U.S. Army has excluded AH-64 Apache attack helicopters from current evaluation. Major General Mac McCurry explained that Army is still grappling with shortages of AH-64s, emphasizing need to maintain and potentially augment current fleet to dress operational requirements.