Earlier this month, Zona Militar reported on one of the most recent proposals put forward by Israeli companies to equip the Argentine Army with modernized UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters. In more detail, the proposal involves supplying an initial batch of ten units that are to be retired by the United States Army (US Army), in line with their resource optimization plans and the introduction of new platforms. Consequently, new details have emerged regarding this proposal, including the type of modernization to be implemented and the possibility of expanding upgrade work to subsequent batches if needed.
Firstly, it should be clarified that the unit cost per modernized helicopter is not USD 2,000,000. This figure arose from direct statements by senior US Army officials when they announced the retirement of a total of 51 UH-60L helicopters. As previously noted, “The surplus Black Hawks from the US Army will be offered through various programs maintained by the Department of Defense for the disposal of military equipment, either through FMS (Foreign Military Sale) or EDA (Excess Defense Article). Major General Mac McCurry also detailed that each UH-60 unit is expected to fetch approximately USD 2 million.” Therefore, this value should be considered alongside the work and financing offered by Israeli companies proposing this to the Argentine Army Aviation Directorate.
Secondly, the company behind the proposal is Israeli firm Elbit Systems, known for providing modernization kits under Argentina’s TAM 2C-A2 Program and possessing the expertise to modernize UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters through various options. Elbit’s capabilities are showcased by their work on updating SH-60F helicopters for the Israeli Navy to replace their AS565MA Atalef models.
These second-hand aircraft, acquired from the US Navy, underwent significant updates to meet the operational requirements of the IDF. Elbit’s upgrades included structural and cockpit updates, integrating a new avionics suite and modern mission systems.
While the proposal for the Argentine Army shares similarities with the SH-60F solution, modernizing the UH-60L helicopters would cater specifically to the operational requirements of the Army Aviation Directorate, involving a fleet of ten modernized units plus one, and providing a logistical package covering supplies and rotables over several years, along with technical training for maintenance crews and support personnel.
A key aspect of the proposal is the suggestion that modernization work be conducted at Campo de Mayo facilities, offering on-the-job training opportunities and the construction of new facilities such as hangars for component storage and specialized workshops meeting current international standards for operating and supporting these aircraft.
Regarding new avionics equipment, the UH-60L helicopters would be upgraded with navigation systems, a full glass cockpit, HMD (Helmet Mounted Display) for both pilots and copilots, new communication systems, and other equipment essential for deploying fully equipped personnel.
Lastly, and surpassing other options, in terms of providing an integral and systemic solution for the renewal of the Argentine Army’s rotary-wing means, is the 10+1 option. As detailed, this includes the optional modernization works for the S70A of the presidential fleet, which would be upgraded recovering its military configuration for troop transport.
With all the above mentioned, the Israeli proposal surpasses in complexity and technification any other currently being considered. It is not a patch, nor an improvised solution, but a real integral solution for the modernization of the Argentine Army Aviation Directorate, which seeks to make a qualitative and quantitative leap in terms of transport capabilities, operability, as well as in the training and preparation of the troops of the force.
*Photographs used solely for illustrative purposes.
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