GE Aerospace delivers T901 Engines to Sikorsky, elevating UH-60M Black Hawk modernization.
GE Aerospace delivered two T901 Improved Turbine Engines to Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, advancing the U.S. Army’s UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter modernization. Moreover, these engines will enhance the helicopter’s performance, increasing lift capability and range for improved mission planning and execution. Additionally, the T901 engine boosts the Black Hawk’s power by 50% and enhances fuel efficiency, crucially supporting Lockheed Martin’s vision for a modernized fleet under its 21st Century Security initiative.
Hamid Salim, Vice president of Army and Air Force Systems at Sikorsky, said, “Increased performance and range offered by the T901 are high-value capabilities the Army is able to implement on the Black Hawk in a cost-effective way that will not require expensive re-engineering. The ITEP and other enhancement efforts ensure the Black Hawk remains in operation well into the 2070s, securing its position as the Army’s foundational tactical air assault and utility aircraft of choice.”
Sikorsky is preparing to conduct a comprehensive multi-aircraft test program to meet the Army’s ITEP acquisition schedule milestones. Initially, two T901 engines will be installed in a Black Hawk test aircraft for ground testing and flight trials. Furthermore, Additional aircraft hardware is already available for installing two more T901 engines in a second Black Hawk, which will expedite the testing process. The UHPO, ATE PO, and Sikorsky reached key milestones: H-60M Preliminary and Critical Design Reviews succeeded. They also completed IVHMS Software FQT and are preparing for the Flight Management System FQT this summer. Moreover, The program has received all necessary aircraft test instrumentation and “A-kit” hardware to support upcoming ground and flight tests, ensuring readiness.
“We view this as an extension of the work we’ve completed on ITE with our Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) prototype and are even better positioned for a timely and simplified integration of the engine into the H-60M, due to data and insights we’ve retrieved from successful ITE tests completed to date.” said, Hamid Salim, Vice president of Army and Air Force Systems at Sikorsky.
Sikorsky received the T901 engine and performed a successful engine light-off on the FARA prototype aircraft. Additionally, The ongoing program aims to collect crucial integration data, reducing risks for upcoming flight tests.
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Sikorsky’s H-60M modernization efforts prioritize ITE, Modular Open Systems Approach/digital backbone, and Launched Effects. These digital innovations, including a sustainment digital twin, enhance safety, mission readiness, and reduce downtime and maintenance costs.
Q. – What are the benefits of the T901 engine for the UH-60M Black Hawk?
A. – Increases power by 50%, enhances fuel efficiency, and improves lift capability and range.
Q. – Who delivered the T901 engines to Sikorsky?
A. – GE Aerospace.
