Thu, Feb 03, 2011
Extensively Modified Black Hawk Entering Service Protecting
U.S. Borders
The second UH-60 aircraft that has undergone "A-A" to "L"
recapitalization has been delivered by Sikorsky Aerospace Services
to the U.S. Customs & Border Protection Agency. Distinguished
as the fifth helicopter off the original Black Hawk helicopter
production line, this fully upgraded UH-60L model will execute
national security missions mandated by the CBP. Nicknamed "718"
from the last three digits of its identification number, the
rebirth of this more than 30-year-old aircraft marks the second
U.S. Army recapitalization upgrade performed at SAS's Military
Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility.
UH-60L Formation File Photo
Aircraft 718 has undergone major structural modifications to
extend the service life of the airframe: upgrade conversions that
include engines, dynamic components and flight controls; and
several modification work orders advancing the aircraft to the
latest US. Army "L" model configuration - including additional
requirements specified by the CBP. These features enhance both
mission capability and readiness, and bring significantly improved
power, durability and reliability to the U. S. Customs and Border
Protection fleet.
A major aviation facility, SAS MRO has become a pivotal location
for aircraft overhaul, repair and upgrades for the United States
Department of Defense, other U.S. government agencies, and allied
foreign militaries throughout the world. Based largely on the
success of the H-60 recapitalization and upgrade program started
more than eight years ago at the Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD)
in Texas, it has proven to be one of the most effective and
productive fleet maintenance programs ever accomplished by the U.S.
Army.
"After 32 years of service to various U.S. government entities
as a model 'A,' aircraft 718 has rolled out of SAS MRO essentially
a new helicopter. Now a UH-60L model, the aircraft is equipped for
enhanced performance alongside all other U.S. Department of Defense
service aircraft," said David Adler, President of Sikorsky
Aerospace Services. "We look forward to continuing our upgrade work
and providing cost effective solutions to extend the life of the
Black Hawk helicopter fleet available through the Army's Excess
Defense Article (EDA) program."
"We in the Utility Helicopters Project Office recognize the hard
work of the Sikorsky team here at Chase Field," said TC Heyward
Wright, Product Manager UH-60A/L/M during the rollout ceremony.
Your efforts on behalf of the Customs and Border Protection Agency
will directly support our nation's security. You have provided
America with the latest in vertical flight technology in a
sustainable and versatile package."
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