US approves possible sale of 11 Black Hawks to Mexico
Washington authorised a possible helicopter sale requested by Mexico to expand its existing fleet for domestic counter-drug airlift. The proposed package has an estimated value of 1.075 billion dollars and includes training and support. Final terms remain subject to negotiation, and no delivery timetable has been announced for the aircraft.
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Washington authorises a possible sale
The US State Department approved Mexico’s request for a possible sale of 11 Black Hawk helicopters on 6 November. The proposed acquisition would expand a helicopter fleet that Mexico already operates.[1], [2]
The package is estimated at 1.075 billion dollars. Final scope and price remain subject to negotiation, and a purchase contract has not been concluded. Sikorsky, the helicopter manufacturer within Lockheed Martin, is designated as the principal contractor for the proposed sale.[1]
Counter-drug airlift and fleet expansion
The stated purpose is to improve domestic airlift for Mexican forces conducting counter-drug operations. Washington set out two connected goals: enlarging the existing UH-60M fleet and improving efficiency by consolidating helicopter types. Receiving units, operating bases and the aircraft types that might be replaced were not identified in the announcement.[1]
Training and long-term technical support
The estimate, beyond the aircraft, includes spare and repair parts, training, engineering and logistical services. Implementation would require 15 additional US government or contractor representatives to travel to Mexico for an extended period. Their duties would include preparing the aircraft, bringing them into service, system checks and technical assistance. No delivery schedule was announced, and the degree of commonality with Mexico’s existing helicopters has not been established.[1]
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