Lockheed Martin’s PZL Mielec has delivered the first four European-manufactured S-70M Black Hawk utility helicopters to Romania’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, with a further two more expected before the end of the year. The purchase was made possible by the European Union’s VISION 2020 project, and the intended missions for the fleet include maritime and land search and rescue, firefighting, transport and medical emergency support.
Furthermore, an additional Black Hawk, procured within the European HeliPol project, is scheduled for delivery before year-end bound for the Romanian Police, increasing its operational capacity. The helicopters are part of a framework agreement that will see up to 12 Polish-built S-70M Black Hawks supplied to Romania over the next four years.
“Arrival of the first Black Hawk helicopters in Romania is a historic event. The Black Hawk is the most capable and dependable helicopter for crews who conduct vital lifesaving and firefighting missions,” explained Paul Lemmo, President of Sikorsky. “These multi-role helicopters bring flexibility to conduct rescue missions at greater ranges and in the most challenging environments, and with increased survivability,” he added.
