Sikorsky HH-60W makes first flight
The Sikorsky HH-60W combat rescue helicopter achieved its first flight at Sikorsky's West Palm Beach, Florida site on 17 May.
The test flight, which lasted for approximately 1.2 hours, included hover control checks, low speed flight, and a pass of the airfield.
The achievement paves the way for a Milestone C production decision in September 2019. A second HH-60W helicopter is expected to enter flight test shortly, with a third and fourth aircraft entering flight test in the summer. These aircraft will provide critical data over the course of the programme which will enable the US Air Force to make an informed production decision.
The HH-60W combat rescue helicopter hosts a new fuel system that nearly doubles the capacity of the internal tank on the UH-60M Black Hawk, providing extended range and more capability to rescue those injured in the battle space.
The air force programme of record calls for 113 helicopters to replace its Pave Hawks, which perform critical combat SAR and personnel recovery operations for all US military services.
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