The Russian invasion of Ukraine has triggered a wide range of military modernization programs across Eastern Europe. In this context, Lithuania—like its Baltic neighbors Latvia and Estonia—is incorporating new platforms and capabilities into its Armed Forces. The most recent development was the confirmation that the Lithuanian Air Force has received its first two UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters from the United States, expanding its current tactical transport capabilities while advancing the replacement of Soviet-era aircraft such as the Mil Mi-8.
At the end of 2020, the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense confirmed the negotiations and arrangements with the United States to begin renewing the helicopter fleet of the Lithuanian Air Force. Following the corresponding U.S. authorization and approval, Lithuania officially confirmed the purchase of four (4) UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters.
The incorporation of the new Black Hawks was initially scheduled for late 2024. However, as confirmed by official sources, the delivery timeline had to be revised. The arrival of the first two Black Hawks was officially confirmed today, with the remaining two units now expected to be delivered in 2026, barring any unforeseen delays.
As mentioned, like many other Eastern European nations, Lithuania is moving forward with the replacement of its legacy Soviet-era platforms. In particular, the Lithuanian Air Force currently operates a small fleet of fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. A brief overview highlights the Italian-made C-27J Spartan transport aircraft and the Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin and Mil Mi-8 helicopters, used for search and rescue and utility transport missions, respectively.
According to recent announcements, this fleet will be renewed and expanded over the coming months and years. Alongside the arrival of the Black Hawks, Lithuania has also confirmed the acquisition of new Brazilian-made Embraer C-390 Millennium transport aircraft.
Lastly, although no additional details were provided at the time of arrival, based on the authorization issued by the U.S. Department of State in 2020, the total value of the operation for six UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters to equip the Lithuanian Air Force was estimated at US$380 million. However, since Lithuania ultimately confirmed the purchase of only four helicopters, the final figure is lower. It is nonetheless presumed that the contracts signed with Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary, may include clauses for the optional acquisition of additional UH-60M units.
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