Helicopter Alliance and Skyrise Leasing have announced a major strategic agreement for the acquisition of 12 UH-60 Black Hawk multi-role helicopters. Deliveries are scheduled for 2026–2027, and the partners have established a new market entity, European Rotors, to implement the project. The deal aims to expand access to leasing options for specialized missions in global markets, where demand for critical aviation solutions is increasing.
Since the launch of the Black Hawk Exchange Sales and Transaction (BEST) program, over 400 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters have been retired from U.S. Army service. These helicopters have received a second life through extensive modernization, becoming highly effective platforms for aerial firefighting. After upgrades, they can operate with portable water-drop systems or large tanks exceeding 4,000 liters, enabling rapid response to large-scale wildfires. The new helicopters are intended for international deployment and aim to meet growing demand for versatile, load-resistant, and environmentally adaptable rotary-wing aircraft.
Patrick Moulay, CEO and co-founder of Skyrise Leasing, noted that the agreement opens new opportunities for the company in the global aerial firefighting market. He emphasized that, given the rapid increase in wildfire risks across Europe and other regions, the UH-60 Black Hawk is an ideal platform for effective disaster response. “Our leasing model provides operators with flexible, ready-to-use tools to support critical firefighting and emergency response missions,” he added.
Ales Kvidera, CEO of Helicopter Alliance, emphasized that the agreement is particularly significant for the market, as commercial operators have long required accessible, comprehensive leasing solutions specifically for Black Hawk helicopters. “Through this agreement with Skyrise Leasing, we are providing an immediate, turnkey solution: UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters modernized by Ace Aeronautics, accompanied by after-sales support, maintenance, and training provided by European Air Services,” he stated.
The strategic partnership between Helicopter Alliance and Skyrise Leasing sets a new benchmark for helicopters in aerial firefighting. By combining Skyrise Leasing’s mission-focused, innovative leasing model with Helicopter Alliance’s years of operational expertise, the collaboration provides a robust solution to enhance aviation capabilities in Europe and beyond. Both companies aim to supply the global market with modern, reliable solutions for critical aviation tasks.
Read also:
- Weapons of Ukrainian Victory: Multi-Purpose Helicopter UH-60 / S-70A Black Hawk
- Everything About the Bell AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom Helicopters: History, Specifications, and Prospects in Ukraine
Source: helicopter-alliance
