58th expects updated helicopters in 2020

  • Published
  • By Bud Cordova
  • Nucleus writer
The 512th Rescue Squadron of the 58th Special Operations Wing expects to upgrade the Pave Hawk helicopter for more capability in future combats rescue mission operations.

"The new air frame will ensure Air Force combat search and rescue capabilities are sustained," said 58th SOW HH-60G Pave Hawk evaluator pilot Maj. Peter Sweeney.

Sweeney said the majority of the Pave Hawks have been in combat and several have sustained damage. 

The new model, HH-60W, called 60 Whiskey, has no official name as of yet. It is based off the UH-60M Black Hawk.

Using the UH-60M as the base frame allows a modification for larger internal fuel storage, extending the range of mission effectiveness. The new model will also have the capability of refueling in mid-air.

The HH-60W can accommodate two pilots, two Special Missions Aviators and team of Pararescue Jumpers, while allowing for two litter patients to be treated simultaneously.

Also included in the upgrades is better avionics equipment. This will allow for faster and more reliable information on weather and air conditions when flying. This reduces the pilots workload giving them increased situational awareness.

Data links will also be upgraded in the HH-60W, allowing rescue crews to send and receive mission intelligence in a secure manner to a wider range of aircraft. 

The first delivery of the 60 Whiskey to Kirtland can be as early as 2020.

""The 58th SOW is currently working with the program development teams to ensure that we have the infrastructure in place and ready to begin training as soon as the HH‐60Wis delivered," Sweeney said.

The infrastructure includes a building for new simulators and modifications to the flight line.

When the HH-60W does start arriving it will be a one-for-one swap-out for the HH-60G model.

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, is designing the HH-60W with input from pilots across Guard, Reserve and active-duty specifically for combat rescue missions.

As of May 2, Lockheed Martin announced the successful preliminary design review, and is three months ahead of schedule with the training systems designs.