Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, has unveiled the S-70UAS U-Hawk, an autonomous cargo variant based on the legendary UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter.
Designed as a fully unmanned logistics platform, the U-Hawk replaces the traditional cockpit with an expanded cargo bay and integrates MATRIX autonomy software, advanced cameras, and sensor arrays. The aircraft can be remotely operated through a tablet-based control interface, requiring no onboard crew.
Technical Specifications
- Development time: 10 months
- Cargo capacity: 25% greater than a standard Black Hawk
- Range: 1,600 nautical miles
- Endurance: Up to 14 hours
- Payload capacity: 4,080 kg (internal and external combined)
- Loading system: Forward-opening cargo doors and integrated loading ramp
Operational Benefits
By eliminating the need for pilots, the U-Hawk dramatically reduces operational and maintenance costs while maintaining 95% compatibility with existing UH-60 fleets, enabling easy fleet integration.
According to Sikorsky, the U-Hawk is ideal for logistical resupply, drone launch missions, heavy-lift transport, and coordinated operations with unmanned ground systems.
The company highlights that this transformation offers a cost-effective, flexible, and scalable capability, aligning with the U.S. Army’s vision for future autonomous multi-mission operations.
