The US Army has taken delivery of its optionally manned UH-60MX Blackhawk from Sikorsky, intended as a test platform to explore operational possibilities.
Sikorsky announced the delivery of the experimental UH-60MX optionally manned utility helicopter fitted with the MATRIX autonomy kit from Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT.
UH-60MX stands between a typical UH-60 and the upcoming S-70UAS U-Hawk heavy RUAV as a modification that allows rapid transition between manned, remote control, and autonomous operation modes. It is anticipated that optional unmanned operation can reduce the risk and workload on pilots for cargo or ISR missions.
S-70UAS U-Hawk, unveiled in late 2025, is a redesign of the Blackhawk as a fully unmanned helicopter meant for autonomous use.
U-Hawk’s main changes include the replacement of the canopy with conformal front cargo doors and a ramp system to allow quick loading of large cargo, aside from the integration of the MATRIX system previously tested on UH-60M. Thanks to increased available space, U-Hawk sports a larger fuel and cargo capacity.
Author: Kaan Azman
Editor:Özgür Ekşi
