The US Army turns Black Hawk into a flying drone nest: a new stage in the war of the future

43 million to rethink the helicopter

The US Army has signed a $43 million contract with Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin. But we are not talking about new helicopters — the money will be used to modernize the existing UH-60 Black Hawk. The goal is not just to update electronics, but to completely change their role. Now these vehicles should become not only transport, but real mobile bases for drones.

This is not fiction. This is the beginning of a new tactic, where one pilot controls not only a helicopter, but also a whole network of drones around.

How Black Hawk will become a Mother for drones

The essence of the upgrade is to install a digital platform that will allow the helicopter to connect, launch and control several drones simultaneously. Imagine a Black Hawk flying at low altitude, surrounded by a swarm of drones that scout ahead, pick up signals, mask a helicopter, or even attack targets.

The military calls it "drone mothership." Black Hawk turns into a command hub that not only carries soldiers, but projects reconnaissance and fire into dangerous areas without exposing itself.

The digital platform is the basis for the swarm

The heart of the update is a digital architecture built on the principle of open systems. This means that drones from different manufacturers can be connected to the platform, with different purposes — from small scouts to shock models.

This approach simplifies updates and makes the system flexible. One type of drone today, another tomorrow. The main thing is that they "speak" the same language as the helicopter.

What's next: AI and the network in the air

So far, it's about controlling drones by a pilot. However, it is planned to introduce artificial intelligence elements in the near future. For example, drones will be able to choose targets themselves, set a route, or respond to threats without direct orders.

This is part of a broader concept — to create an "in-the-air network" where people, helicopters and drones work as one. Upgrading Black Hawk is not the ultimate goal, but a step towards an army where technology is ahead of the curve.

Sikorsky Upgrades Black Hawk to Carry and Launch "launch effect" Drones

US Army and Sikorsky join forces to integrate drones into Black Hawk helicopters

Sikorsky, a division of RTX, has received a contract from the US Army to modernize UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The main goal is to adapt the legendary transport helicopters for the transportation and deployment of new tactical unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), codenamed "launch effect" (LVC — Launch, Vehicle, Cargo). This upgrade will be an important step in integrating drones into operational air missions.

Black Hawk's New Role as a Mobile Drone Platform

As part of the modernization program, UH-60 helicopters will be equipped with special compartments and mounting systems that allow for safe transportation of several UAVs on board. Once delivered to the area of operations, the helicopter will be able to deploy drones in the air or on the ground, depending on the tactical task.

This configuration turns the Black Hawk into a mobile command post and drone carrier capable of providing reconnaissance, electronic warfare or strike functions without direct crew involvement in high-risk areas.

What is the "trigger effect" and why is it needed?

The Launch Effect Program (LVC) is a U.S. Army initiative to create low—cost, disposable, or reusable drones that can be quickly deployed from a variety of platforms, including helicopters, ground vehicles, and even other drones.

It is expected that these UAVs will enter service in 2026 and will be used for:

Tactical reconnaissance in hard-to-reach areas

Electronic suppression of enemy communications

Radio signal simulations (masking)

Strike missions against light armored vehicles

Integration with Black Hawk will ensure high mobility and rapid deployment.

The importance of modernization for the future of combat operations

Retrofitting the UH-60 is part of the U.S. Army's strategy to create hybrid air groups where manned and unmanned systems operate in a single network. This corresponds to the concept of "next generation air patrol" (Future Vertical Lift), where helicopters become the "wombs" for drones.

Sikorsky already has experience in this field — previously, the company demonstrated technologies for autonomous flight and drone control from a helicopter using the MATRIX Autonomy system.

Lockheed Martin-Sikorsky has begun assembling the first CH-53K Pereh helicopter for Israel under a 12-vehicle contract

The American company Lockheed Martin, together with its subsidiary Sikorsky, has begun the final assembly process of the first CH-53K Pereh heavy transport helicopter for the Israeli Air Force. In total, Israel has ordered 12 such helicopters as part of a major contract under the Foreign Military Sales Program (FMS) concluded between the Israeli Ministry of Defense and the US government.

This helicopter, also known as the King Stallion, is a deep upgrade of the previous model, the CH-53E Super Stallion. The CH-53K has significantly improved flight characteristics, including an increased payload capacity of up to 16.3 tons on an external suspension. It is capable of transporting heavy loads, equipment and troops, including amphibious landings.

At the operational readiness level of the Israeli CH-53K, helicopter deliveries are expected starting from 2025-2026. These vehicles will significantly enhance the transport and tactical capabilities of the Israeli Air Force, expanding the range of operations for the transportation of large loads, evacuation and combat support.

The approximately $2 billion contract with Israel is a significant part of Sikorsky's export program and demonstrates the high confidence in this type of helicopter, which is already successfully serving in the ranks of the US Army.

Norway buys nine HH-60W helicopters from the United States for $2.6 billion

Norway has officially received the go-ahead from the United States for the purchase of nine HH-60W Jolly Green II rescue helicopters, and it costs as much as $2.6 billion. If the deal goes through, Norway will become the first foreign user of these machines. Supplies include not only the helicopters themselves, but also engines, equipment, spare parts, and even training for pilots and technicians.

What is the HH-60W?

This is an upgraded version of the legendary Black Hawk, tailored for rescue operations in combat conditions. The main advantage is the increased flight range. The HH-60W has almost twice as much power as the old HH-60G. This is especially important if you need to pull the crew deep behind the front line or in difficult weather conditions.

By the way, the helicopter has been equipped with large fuel tanks and even an in—flight refueling system for this purpose, so it can operate autonomously for a long time.

As part of the contract, the country will receive:

- 9 HH-60W helicopters  

- 22 GE T700 engines (including spare ones)  

- Enemy missile and radar detection systems  

- Electronic warfare systems  

- GAU-21 machine guns 

- Software, spare parts and full technical support  

The training of pilots and technical staff will take place with the help of American instructors and specialists from Sikorsky, which is the main supplier of this equipment.

These helicopters will replace the outdated Bell 412, which have long failed to meet modern requirements. And the new vehicles will give the Norwegian army a serious breakthrough in terms of mobility, survivability and functionality — all of which is critically important in the current geopolitical environment.

In addition, the HH-60W combines perfectly with the equipment of other NATO countries, which simplifies joint operations and logistics. In other words, Norway is not just updating its fleet, it is becoming part of a more well—coordinated security system.

By the way, the HH-60W is not the only order. Norway has previously agreed to supply six MH-60R Seahawk anti-submarine missiles to replace the decommissioned NH90s. This will also increase standardization and simplify maintenance of equipment.

After signing the contract, training will begin: pilot training, modernization of airfields, creation of repair bases. The first deliveries are expected to be received in the middle of the next decade, and then Norway will significantly strengthen its air force.  

Thus, this deal is not just a purchase of equipment, but a strategic step towards strengthening the country's defense capability and its role in NATO.

Sikorsky relies on AI and automation in manned helicopters: future technologies are already in development

The heads of the American aircraft manufacturer Sikorsky, part of Lockheed Martin, said that artificial intelligence (AI) and automation systems will play an increasingly important role not only in unmanned aerial vehicles, but also in traditional manned helicopters. This announcement marks an important shift in the approach to aircraft engineering, where humans remain in the control center but receive powerful support from autonomous systems.

One of Sikorsky's key achievements in this area is the Matrix technology, which is an autonomous flight control system capable of integrating into existing helicopter models, including the well-known UH-60 Black Hawk. Matrix combines advanced algorithms, sensors and computing modules, allowing the helicopter to perform tasks such as:

- automatic takeoff and landing;  

- navigation in difficult conditions;  

- avoiding obstacles;  

- Real-time route planning;  

- reducing the burden on the crew by partially or fully automating the flight.

Matrix technology is considered as an important step towards the realization of the concept of "flying taxi", as well as as the basis for the creation of hybrid helicopters combining the capabilities of manned and unmanned aircraft. It can be used for both civilian and military purposes, from delivering cargo to hard—to-reach areas to rescue operations and strike missions.

The future of helicopter aviation

According to Sikorsky experts, the introduction of AI into helicopter control is not a replacement for a pilot, but rather an enhancement of his capabilities. In conditions of high threat or difficult weather conditions, automation can improve the safety and accuracy of the mission. Such technologies are especially relevant for the modern battlefield, where the reaction speed and awareness of the crew can decide the outcome of an operation.

In addition, autonomous functions can be used within the framework of the "Loyal Wingman" concept, in which one pilot controls not only his helicopter, but also a number of accompanying UAVs performing reconnaissance or strike missions.

With the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning, such systems will become even more adaptive and intelligent, capable of making decisions in real time and minimizing the risk of human error.

Sikorsky presented the S-97 Raider composite helicopter at the Paris Air Show, a new stage in the development of reconnaissance and strike aircraft

S-97 Raider

Lockheed Martin's subsidiary, Sikorsky— made the international debut of its innovative composite helicopter, the S-97 Raider, at the Paris Air Show 2025. This next-generation helicopter is designed as a reconnaissance and attack platform capable of providing the US Army with high maneuverability and speed on the modern battlefield.

Features and innovations of the S-97 Raider

- Composite design: The S-97 combines a rotary-wing design with two main rotors and a pusher propeller, which provides significantly higher speed and maneuverability compared to traditional helicopters.

- High speed: Thanks to its unique aerodynamics, the Raider is capable of speeds up to 440 km/h, which is almost twice the speed of conventional combat helicopters.

- Multifunctional: The helicopter is designed to perform reconnaissance missions, fire support, as well as precision strikes against ground and air targets.

- Modern control and weapons systems: The S-97 is equipped with advanced avionics, communication systems and the ability to integrate various types of weapons, including missiles and machine guns.

The appearance of the S-97 Raider on the international stage, especially in Europe, reflects the growing transatlantic cooperation in the field of defense and modernization of the armed forces. The demonstration of the helicopter at the Paris Air Show was an important signal to the US allies about new vertical lift and air support capabilities.

The S-97 Raider is seen as a key element of future combat concepts where speed, maneuverability, and versatility play a crucial role. Its innovative design can become the basis for the development of new generations of combat helicopters capable of operating effectively in high-tech conflicts.

Black Hawk helicopters can now fly independently

Black Hawk helicopters can now fly independently.Black Hawk helicopters can now fly without pilots using the new Matrix artificial intelligence technology.                         

The aviation era is entering a new phase marked by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and autonomy. One of the most significant recent achievements has been the demonstration of the ability of the legendary American UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters to fly without pilots on board. This is not just another step in the development of unmanned systems.; This is a transformation of one of the most recognizable and widely used rotorcraft in the world, opening up completely new horizons for military and potentially civilian operations. At the heart of this revolution is an advanced artificial intelligence technology known as Matrix, developed by Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin.The UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter is itself an icon of military aviation. Being in service with the US Army and many other countries since the late 1970s, it has proven itself to be an incredibly reliable, versatile and hardy machine. The Black Hawks have participated in countless operations around the world, performing a wide range of tasks, from transporting troops and supplies to medical evacuation, search and rescue missions, and fire support. Its rugged design, excellent flight characteristics, and ability to operate in the harshest environments have made it an ideal platform for integrating advanced autonomous systems. Choosing Black Hawk for such tests highlights the desire to modernize the existing, time-tested fleet of vehicles, rather than create completely new platforms from scratch, which significantly accelerates and reduces the cost of innovation.A number of factors are driving the development of autonomous capabilities for helicopters like the Black Hawk. First of all, it is the desire to improve flight safety and reduce risks for the crews. Flying in difficult weather conditions, at night, in conditions of poor visibility (dust, smoke, fog) or in active combat zones is fraught with great danger for pilots. An autonomous system capable of taking over control or even completely completing a mission without a human on board can dramatically change the situation, allowing you to perform tasks that were previously considered too risky. In addition, automation reduces the burden on pilots during long or routine flights, allowing them to focus on more important aspects of the mission, such as tactical planning or weapon system management. This also opens up the possibility of reducing the number of crew, which can be crucial in the face of a shortage of qualified pilots.Sikorsky's Matrix technology is not just an advanced autopilot, but a full-fledged artificial intelligence system designed for flight control. It integrates a set of hardware and software tools. The hardware includes a variety of sensors (lidars, visible and infrared cameras, radars, inertial navigation systems, GPS) and powerful on-board computers. The software is complex algorithms that process data from sensors in real time, create a detailed three–dimensional picture of the environment, plot a safe flight route, taking into account the terrain, obstacles and dynamically changing conditions, and generate commands for helicopter control systems. Matrix is designed as an "Optionally Piloted Vehicle" (OPV) system. This means that the helicopter can fly both under pilot control and completely autonomously, or in a mixed mode when the AI helps the crew. Pilots can take control at any time or transfer it to the system. This flexibility is a key advantage, allowing you to adapt the automation level to your specific mission and conditions.              

The development and testing of autonomous Black Hawks has been underway for several years, often in collaboration with the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), in particular, under the ALIAS (Aircrew Laboratory In-System Automation System) program.                     

ALIAS's goal was to create a universal automation suite that could be relatively easily integrated into various existing aircraft, both airplanes and helicopters, to reduce crew workload and improve safety. Sikorsky used a specially modified S-70 helicopter (the civilian version of the Black Hawk), known as the SARA (Sikorsky Autonomy Research Aircraft), as a flying laboratory for testing Matrix algorithms. These efforts culminated in historic flights, when the UH-60 Black Hawk, equipped with the Matrix system, took to the air for the first time and performed a series of maneuvers without a single person on board. These demonstration flights included autonomous takeoff, flight along a preset route, flying around simulated obstacles, selecting and landing at an unplanned point, as well as autonomous landing. The capabilities of performing typical missions, such as cargo delivery on an external sling and even flight simulation in a degraded visual environment where human vision would be severely limited, were demonstrated. The system has shown the ability to analyze the surrounding space, identify safe landing zones and perform complex maneuvers with high accuracy comparable to the actions of an experienced pilot.The operating principle of Matrix is based on merging data from multiple sensors. Lidars create an accurate map of terrain and obstacles, cameras provide visual recognition of objects, radars help in conditions of poor visibility, and inertial and satellite systems are responsible for navigation. Artificial intelligence analyzes all this information, predicts possible developments (for example, the appearance of other aircraft) and makes control decisions – changes course, altitude, speed, controls the pitch of the propellers. The system is capable of not only following a set flight plan, but also dynamically responding to unforeseen circumstances, such as a sudden obstacle or a change in weather conditions, independently choosing the safest and most effective way to continue the mission.

The introduction of such technologies opens up completely new tactical opportunities for the military. Autonomous Black Hawks can be used to supply advanced units in dangerous areas without risking the crews. They can carry out reconnaissance missions or electronic warfare missions deep behind enemy lines. Potentially, such helicopters can be used for medical evacuation of the wounded from the battlefield, where sending a manned vehicle would be suicidal. The ability to work around the clock without restrictions related to pilot fatigue significantly increases operational readiness. In the future, one operator on the ground will be able to control several autonomous helicopters acting as a single "swarm" to perform complex coordinated tasks. This may lead to fundamental changes in the structure of army aviation and tactics of its use.Despite impressive successes, the path to widespread adoption of fully autonomous helicopters has not yet been completed. There are a number of difficult tasks to be solved. It is necessary to develop and approve strict certification procedures for such systems, ensuring their reliability and safety at a level not inferior to manned aviation. Cybersecurity is a critical issue – protecting management systems from hacking or hostile interference. Further improvement of AI algorithms is required, especially in terms of decision-making in non-standard, unforeseen situations that are difficult to model in advance. The psychological aspect is equally important – the formation of trust in autonomous systems among both the military themselves and society as a whole. It is necessary to define the ethical framework for the use of such technologies, especially if we are talking about armed options. The integration of autonomous vehicles into the existing air traffic control system and interaction with manned vehicles will also require new protocols and standards.                

Nevertheless, the first successful Black Hawk flights without pilots clearly show the direction of development of military (and possibly civilian) helicopter aviation. Matrix technology and similar systems promise to make flying safer, more efficient, and more accessible for the most demanding and dangerous tasks, marking a new era in the history of rotorcraft. Combining the time-tested Black Hawk platform with advanced artificial intelligence creates a synergy that will shape the future of vertical takeoff and landing for decades to come.

Sikorsky presents the concept of the future X2 aircraft as an analogue of the F-35 for low altitudes and the need for a next-generation rotorcraft for the U.S. Army

 

S-97 above the Development Flight Center Sikorsky

Sikorsky shared its conceptual vision of the future X2 aircraft, presenting it as an analog of the F-35 Lightning II in the field of low altitudes.

After the cancellation of the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) program in 2024, Sikorsky continues to actively work on X2 technology. In fact, this technology is still among the candidates for NATO and South Korea's next-generation helicopter programs.

Front view of the S-97 Raider

An analysis of current operational conditions, including conflicts such as Ukraine, highlights the need for an advanced rotorcraft.

 In fact, the current conflicts have once again highlighted the vulnerability of helicopters, requiring them to fly low and fast in order to maximize their survival rate and make targeting the enemy more difficult.

Low and fast flight not only makes it difficult to detect, but also reduces the enemy's reaction time and thus reduces the time to aim weapons at helicopters. 

Conversely, high flight makes it easier to detect and gives the enemy more time to react, even if he is flying at high speed.Thus, survival is directly related to altitude and speed. To give some figures, at high altitudes, the detection rate is close to 100%, which significantly reduces survival. However, flying below 500 feet reduces the detection rate to about 40%, and at an altitude of 100 feet, the detection rate becomes minimal, only 7%, with a significant increase in survival.

According to Sikorsky, the main advantage of the X2 technology over a conventional helicopter with a single main rotor is its ability to fly faster and lower while maintaining good maneuverability.