Rio de Janeiro invests in armored Black Hawk helicopter to strengthen security

RJ Government strengthens police with armored Black Hawk helicopter and over 750 new vehicles
Rio de Janeiro invests in Black Hawk armored helicopter to strengthen security (X @LockheedMartin)

The government of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has announced the acquisition of a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, a model used by the United States in various military operations, including the one that killed Osama bin Laden.

The aircraft, armored to resist gunfire, a recurring issue for pilots in the state, is expected to be integrated into public security by the end of 2025.

This helicopter will be the first of its kind to be operated by civilian forces in Brazil. Currently, only the Brazilian Air Force, Army, and Navy use this model.

Designed in the 1970s by the manufacturer Sikorsky, now part of Lockheed Martin, the Black Hawk has several versions adapted for different functions, such as troop transport, rescues, surveillance, and firefighting. Widely used in wars such as those in Afghanistan and Iraq, it has become a key element in American military operations and has been exported to several countries.

The UH-60M model being acquired can carry up to 12 people in addition to the crew, support loads of up to 4.1 tons, and reach a cruising speed of 280 km/h. Its range is up to 1,100 km, with a flight autonomy of 4.5 hours.

Despite the announcement, details such as cost, location of use, and team training have not been disclosed.

Source: UOL | Photo: X @LockheedMartin | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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