Jordan seeks sale of UH-60M VIP Blackhawk helicopter from US

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress of the potential foreign military sale (FMS) for a UH-60M VIP Blackhawk helicopter and associated equipment and logistical support to Jordan.

Under the estimated $21m FMS, which has been approved by the US State Department, Jordan has also requested two (2) T700-GE-701D engines, spare and repair parts, publications and technical data, support equipment, communication equipment, personnel training and training equipment.

The proposed package also includes US Government and contractor engineering, logistics, and technical support services, aircraft survivability equipment, aviation mission planning system, tools and test equipment, and other related elements of logistical and programme support.

Apart from contributing to the foreign policy and national security of the US, the sale will allow the country to maintain political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.

The Black Hawk helicopter will be used by Jordan to provide intra-country transportation for the Royal family, Jordanian officials, visiting Heads of State, and other dignitaries.

Sikorsky Aircraft and General Electric Company will serve as the principal contractors for the sale.

The UH-60M helicopter is also in service with the Department of Homeland Security, US Customs and Border Protection and the Royal Jordanian Air Force.

Powered by two General Electric T700-GE-701D engines with cowling, the UH-60M can fly at a maximum cruise speed of 280km/h and offers a maximum range of 511km.