Argentina cancels Black Hawk tender
January 9, 2025
On 2 December 2024, the Comando de Aviación del Ejército Argentino (EA, Argentine Army Aviation) issued a tender to acquire three second hand UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. This was due to run until 13 January 2025, but has been cancelled prematurely.
It was specified that these helicopters (already allocated the serials AE-531 to AE-533) must have been manufactured after 1990 and meet stringent technical standards, and should have an operational potential of at least 480 hours, having completed intermediate maintenance inspections (PMI). In addition, they must incorporate the latest technical improvements recommended by the manufacturer.
It was laid down that they should have visual and instrument flight capabilities (VFR/IFR), night vision goggles (NVG) and specialized equipment such as cargo hooks, rappel and fast-rope systems, as well as two 7.62-mm MAG machine gun pintles per aircraft and provision for auxiliary fuel tanks, both internal and external.
Delivery of all material was to be made to the Aircraft Supply and Maintenance Battalion 601, located in Campo de Mayo, with the successful bidder being responsible for transportation and delivery.
The tender also requested live and simulator training hours for five crews.
The tender was issued after news emerged last summer of a potential deal with Israel under which ten surplus US Army UH-60Ls would be upgraded with modern avionics and self-defence systems by Elbit Systems, before being delivered to Argentina. The ten upgraded aircraft were to be accompanied by one further airframe for ground training, and a logistics package covering supplies for several years, along with technical training for maintenance and support personnel.
It was suggested that the modernization work would be conducted at Campo de Mayo, with on-the-job training opportunities for Argentine personnel and the construction of new facilities including hangars, component storage and specialized workshops.
