H-60

The Sikorsky H‑60 family, introduced in the early 1980s, is a versatile twin‑engine helicopter that has become one of the most widely used rotorcraft in both military and civilian roles. Developed from the earlier S‑70 design, the first production model, the UH‑60 Black Hawk, entered U.S. Army service in 1979 and quickly proved its reliability in combat, rescue, and transport missions. Over the decades the platform has been adapted into numerous variants, including the SH‑60 Seahawk for naval anti‑submarine warfare, the VH‑60 for medical evacuation, and the MH‑60R and MH‑60S for multi‑mission maritime operations. Key features include a composite airframe, four‑bladed main rotor, dual turboshaft engines delivering up to 1,800 shaft horsepower, and a glass cockpit with digital flight controls. Its modular design allows rapid re‑configuration of avionics, weapons, and mission equipment, while a high service ceiling and excellent hover performance enable operations in harsh environments ranging from desert heat to arctic cold. The H‑60’s longevity, export success, and continual upgrades have made it a benchmark for modern helicopter design, influencing subsequent rotorcraft development worldwide and cementing Sikorsky’s legacy in aviation history.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation

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Design & Classification