Defense Department Accelerates MH-60 Modernization and UAS Power Initiatives
MH-60 Modernization Prototype Contracts
The U.S. Navy has awarded prototype phase contracts under its Multi-Mission Helicopter (MH-60) modernization program to a select group of industry performers. These initial awards fund the development and demonstration of advanced mission systems, avionics upgrades and structural enhancements designed to extend fleet service life into the 2030s.
Key highlights:
- Competitive awards to leading aerospace firms for prototype design and integration
- Funding supports digital cockpit, active vibration control and improved mission computing
- Prototype demonstrations scheduled for completion in 2027, with production decisions to follow
Depot-Assembled UAS Motors Drive Record Flight
Tobyhanna Army Depot engineers successfully assembled and tested high-performance electric motors that powered an unmanned aerial system (UAS) to a new world-record endurance flight. This in-house sustainment capability reduces reliance on commercial supply chains and delivers cost-effective support for emerging drone platforms.
- Depot teams assembled over 20 custom motors under a rapid-action order
- World-record flight validated supply-chain resilience and in-service propulsion upgrades
- In-house production is projected to save the Department of Defense millions annually in maintenance and logistics costs
Strategic Infrastructure Investment
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has initiated a multi-million-dollar modernization contract to renovate historic Fort Sill barracks. Upgrades include energy-efficient systems, structural reinforcements and modern living facilities to support over 15,000 personnel. This investment enhances troop readiness and aligns base infrastructure with the Department’s strategic objectives.
Taken together, these awards and depot-led efforts signify a concerted drive toward lifecycle cost reduction, enhanced platform performance and critical infrastructure renewal across the Department of War’s aviation and installation portfolios.