The Black Hawk helicopters will enhance the Albanian military forces’ capabilities in medical evacuation, personnel recovery, search and rescue operations, and support NATO logistics during operations and exercises.
Originally, Albania was set to receive three Black Hawks as announced in April 2019 by then Albanian Defense Minister Olta Xhacka. However, in 2021, US Lieutenant Colonel Erol Munir revised the number to two. As announced by the US embassy in Tirana, Washington is backing this acquisition with USD 50 million in funding assistance.
Produced by the US-based Sikorsky Aircraft, UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters are equipped with four blades and two engines, designed for medium-lift utility operations, including cargo and troop transport. This acquisition marks a significant enhancement of Albania’s aerial capabilities in line with its defense and NATO operation commitments.
