Sikorsky Begins Ground Runs of UH-60M Black Hawk With New T901 Engines

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has conducted its first ground runs of a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter equipped with two GE Aerospace T901 Improved Turbine Engines (ITE).

The test, carried out by a joint U.S. Army and industry team, evaluated system functionality, engine health, and overall test setup.

The T901 engine was tested in various modes, including idle and fly, with the rotor brake disengaged. The start-to-fly progression assessed fuel, electrical, hydraulic, and flight control systems. The results set the stage for hover and forward flight tests, with the first flight of the ITE-equipped Black Hawk expected this year.

The T901 engine is designed to provide 50% more power while improving fuel efficiency, supporting modernization efforts for the Black Hawk fleet. Sikorsky’s H-60M upgrades also focus on a Modular Open Systems Approach, digital backbone integration, and launched effects. Additional digital innovations aim to reduce pilot workload and enhance mission readiness.