Sikorsky emphasises localised Black Hawk conversion for uncrewed U-Hawk
A UH-60 Black Hawk operated by the Royal Jordanian Air Force. (Photo: US Marine Corps)
The platform was first unveiled in September 2025, with efforts now focusing on flight tests in the next year.
Sikorsky’s recently unveiled uncrewed aerial system (UAS) Black Hawk, the S-70UAS U-Hawk, is on track towards its first flight in 2026 and subsequent flight envelope expansion.
Speaking to Shephard about the UAS’s roadmap at the Dubai Airshow, the U-Hawk went from “concept to concrete” in 10 months, Sikorsky executives said. The uncrewed platform, a modified UH-60L Black Hawk, has clamshell doors installed, and the cargo area capacity of the aircraft has been increased by 20%, according to Sikorsky.
As Shephard previously reported at AUSA, the S-70UAS is expected to carry out first flights in 2026. Production is also slated
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![US plans to raise defence production by 300% but multiple uncertainties remain]()
US plans to raise defence production by 300% but multiple uncertainties remain
The strategy, schedule and budget to support Washington’s intention to speed up the manufacturing of defence capabilities remain unclear.
-
![Switzerland faces procurement shake-up with reduced F-35 buy and five-year Patriot delays]()
Switzerland faces procurement shake-up with reduced F-35 buy and five-year Patriot delays
The reduction in the number of planned F-35A aircraft from 36 to 30 by the Swiss government comes due to budget constraints, with no firm plans to fill the gap despite “negative consequences”.
-
![What will the replacement of A-10s by F-35s mean for the US Air Force?]()
What will the replacement of A-10s by F-35s mean for the US Air Force?
The USAF plans to phase out its 162 in-operation A-10 Thunderbolt II Warthogs by the end of FY2026, replacing them with F-35As which will bring a leap in capabilities in terms of lethality, survivability and speed.
-
![Embraer turns to AI solution for A-29 Super Tucano CUAS evolution]()
Embraer turns to AI solution for A-29 Super Tucano CUAS evolution
The AI solution is called Gunslinger, which will be used to assist the pilot in decision-making for counter-drone operations.
-
![Anduril marks new milestones with YFQ-44A flight tests as USAF plans further demos]()
Anduril marks new milestones with YFQ-44A flight tests as USAF plans further demos
A production decision on Increment 1 of the CCA Programme is due to be made by the end of the year, with further demonstrations building on F-22 Raptor and MQ-20 Avenger teaming flight tests.
