To make this website work, we log user data. By using Shephard's online services, you agree to our Privacy Policy, including cookie policy.

×
Open menu Search

Lithuania poised to sign Black Hawk FMS

11th November 2020 - 10:58 GMT | by The Shephard News Team

RSS
​MoD to procure four helicopters initially, with option for two more

The Lithuanian MoD is set to formally finalise an FMS deal with the US  for four UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters with additional equipment, spares, and training, repair and logistical support.

This procurement will cost €181 million (USD213 million) over the next five years, the MoD noted in a 10 November statement, with an extra $30 million of US federal government support.

Lithuania also has the option to acquire two more Black Hawks, bringing the overall cost of the FMS to $380 million.

The new platform will replace ageing Mi-8Ts currently used by the Lithuanian Armed Forces. There are five of these helicopters in the Lithuanian inventory, according to Shephard Defence Insight.

Lockheed Martin subsidiary Sikorsky and General Electric were announced as prime contractors when the potential FMS package was announced in July.

‘This acquisition is one of the most critical elements in the modernisation and enhancement of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, and a significant qualitative leap in supplying the military with contemporary and capable weaponry,’ Minister of National Defence Raimundas Karoblis said.

The first Black Hawks could arrive in late 2024, by when the Lithuania Armed Forces will have in place fully trained pilots, ground crew and relevant support equipment. 

As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.

The Shephard News Team

Author

The Shephard News Team


As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to Premium News and Defence Insight …

Read full bio

Share to

Linkedin