Photo = Korean Air

 

 

[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Seoul, April 23, 2025 — Korean Air announced today that it has been selected as the preferred bidder for the performance upgrade of the Republic of Korea’s UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters—one of the nation’s key military assets.


In partnership with LIG Nex1 and Collins Aerospace, Korean Air formed a consortium to participate in the defense procurement bidding. The project is valued at approximately KRW 961.3 billion (USD 690 million).


The UH-60, known as the Black Hawk, is a multi-role helicopter widely used by the Korean Army and Air Force for special operations. The upgrade program covers 36 aircraft and includes full-scale digitalization of cockpits, engine enhancements, survivability and communications equipment upgrades, as well as depot-level overhaul integration and force integration support.


Korean Air has a longstanding history with the UH-60, having manufactured over 130 units between 1991 and 1999. The company has also carried out various maintenance and partial upgrade programs for these helicopters over the years.


Final negotiations with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) regarding technical and contractual terms will be conducted before the contract is finalized. Korean Air plans to begin delivery of the upgraded helicopters to the Korean military starting in 2029.



A Korean Air representative stated, “Leveraging our specialized capabilities and extensive experience with the UH-60, we are committed to enhancing the operational readiness of Korea’s special forces and strengthening national defense.”

 

 

 

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