U.S. approves military sale to Norway of UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters

The U.S. State Department has approved a possible $2.3 billion sale of UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and associated equipment to Norway, according to a notification to Congress. The package would bolster the capabilities of a NATO ally and enhance interoperability with U.S. and allied forces, the government said.

Norway’s request covers 21 UH-60M helicopters and 46 T700-GE-701D engines, along with defensive systems and avionics including AN/AAR-57 Common Missile Warning Systems, Common Infrared Countermeasures, AN/APR-39E(V)2 radar warning receivers, embedded GPS/INS units, and ARC-231A VHF/UHF/LOS SATCOM radios. The sale also includes door guns (M240H), Link 16 terminals, electro-optical/infrared sensors with laser designators, weather radar, rescue hoists, fast-rope kits, armor protection, auxiliary fuel systems, winterization gear, training devices, and extensive spares and support.

Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky unit in Stratford, Connecticut, would be the principal contractor. The U.S. government said it is not aware of any offset agreements at this stage; any such arrangements would be negotiated between Norway and the contractor.

If implemented, about 15 U.S. government and 15 contractor personnel would deploy to Norway for an extended period to support de-processing, fielding, system checks, training, and logistics.

Washington said the proposed sale would improve Norway’s ability to meet current and future threats, upgrade its rotary-wing fleet, and allow the Norwegian Army and Special Operations Forces to conduct independent operations on a common platform. The deal “will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” the notification stated.

Congressional approval is required, and the value and scope of foreign military sales can change during negotiations. Norway, a NATO member, has been investing in air and maritime capabilities as part of broader defense modernization and alliance commitments.