The Swedish Armed Forces are implementing a critical upgrade to their fleet of Helikopter 16 (UH-60M Black Hawk) helicopters, aiming to significantly enhance their operational capabilities. This comprehensive upgrade, which commenced in autumn 2023 and is anticipated to conclude by the end of 2024, involves the integration of a new fuel tank system designed to boost the helicopters’ operational range by 50%. The centerpiece of this upgrade is the installation of an additional fuel tank, which has a capacity of approximately 750 liters. This tank can be mounted in the cabin as needed, extending the flight time of the UH-60M Black Hawks and providing greater operational flexibility. This improvement is particularly advantageous for missions in large operational theaters, such as those conducted in Mali, where Swedish forces previously utilized a similar system during their international mission that concluded in 2022.
The decision to adopt this fuel tank system underscores Sweden’s alignment with established international practices, as this system is also employed by other nations, including the United States. By leveraging the configurations and support mechanisms provided by the US Army, Sweden benefits from proven airworthiness standards and system integration practices. The upgrade process is being carried out in Sweden with the assistance of US Army personnel, ensuring that the modifications adhere to stringent operational and safety standards. Once completed, all units of the Helicopter 16 fleet will be equipped with the capability to use the additional fuel tank, greatly enhancing their operational reach and endurance. This advancement promises to significantly increase the availability and flexibility of Sweden’s helicopter units, improving their performance across a wide range of mission profiles.
The Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk, the platform upon which the Helikopter 16 is based, is a highly versatile, four-blade, twin-engine medium-lift utility military helicopter. Developed by Sikorsky Aircraft, the Black Hawk was named after the Native American war leader Black Hawk and entered service with the U.S. Army in 1979. It replaced the Bell UH-1 Iroquois as the Army’s primary tactical transport helicopter. Over the decades, the Black Hawk has undergone various upgrades, with the latest iteration being the UH-60M. The UH-60M variant, which began production in 2006 following U.S. Department of Defense approval, represents the most advanced version of the Black Hawk. The initial batch of 22 UH-60Ms was delivered in July 2006, and subsequent orders have expanded the fleet significantly. By March 2009, 100 UH-60M helicopters had been delivered to the U.S. Army. The Black Hawk’s versatility and advanced features have led to its adoption by 35 different countries as of 2024.
Sweden’s acquisition of the UH-60M began with a Foreign Military Sale request in September 2010, followed by an official order in May 2011. Deliveries of the 15 UH-60Ms, designated as Helikopter 16, started in January 2012, serving as replacements for the older Helikopter 10 Super Puma. The UH-60M variant is noted for being lighter and faster than its predecessor, with a top speed of 280 km/h. It is primarily used for transporting troops, materials, and medical evacuations, with the capability to carry equipment both internally and externally. Since their introduction, the Swedish UH-60Ms have proven their value in various operational environments. In March 2013, Swedish ISAF forces began using these helicopters in Afghanistan for medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) missions. The UH-60Ms have been fully operational in the Swedish Armed Forces since 2017. The recent order for an additional 12 UH-60Ms, placed in June 2024, underscores Sweden’s commitment to maintaining a modern and capable fleet.
