U.S. Approves Potential Sale of Black Hawk Helicopters to Greece

The U.S. Department of State has decided to approve a potential sale of 35 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and related equipment to the Greek government, with an estimated cost of $1.95 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency today delivered the required certification, officially notifying Congress of this potential sale.

According to the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA), the Greek government requested to purchase thirty-five UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters. The related equipment includes engines, missile warning systems, wireless communication systems, as well as training equipment and personnel training. The U.S. government and the manufacturing company will provide mechanical, technical, and logistical support.

As stated in the letter, "this proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States, assisting in improving the security of a NATO ally that is an important partner for political stability and economic progress in Europe."

Furthermore, it is noted that "the proposed sale will replace Greece's current fleet of multi-role helicopters with a more reliable and proven system, allowing Greece to maintain the appropriate level of readiness for conducting combined operations. The UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter will enhance the Greek Army's ability to generate combat power for the security of Greece's borders, deter actions against its interests, and, when required, respond with reliable force. Greece will have no difficulty incorporating this equipment into its Armed Forces."

Finally, it is stated that the proposed sale of this equipment will not alter the basic military balance in the region. The primary contractor for the agreement will be "Sikorsky," a company owned by "Lockheed Martin" and headquartered in Stratford, Connecticut.