Collins Aerospace to Enhance U.S. Army Black Hawk Helicopters with Modular Avionics Systems

Enhancing the Black Hawk: Collins Aerospace's New Avionics Initiative

Collins Aerospace, part of RTX, has officially announced a significant advancement in military aviation with a whopping $80 million contract aimed at upgrading the avionics of the U.S. Army’s Black Hawk helicopters. This upgrade is part of the H-60M Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) Avionics Architecture Solution program, which is set to transform the way these iconic helicopters operate in the field.

The Future of Avionics

The proposed upgrade will incorporate Collins' Mosarc®, a line of Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA)-compliant products designed to enhance the functionality and efficiency of military avionics. By introducing an open systems architecture into the Black Hawk cockpits, this initiative aims to ensure that the helicopters can swiftly adapt to new technologies, keeping pace with the rapidly evolving demands of modern warfare.

"Mosarc is designed to provide vital interoperability for various forces involved in joint operations, ensuring that our soldiers can effectively communicate and coordinate in real-time," stated Jenny Miller, VP at Collins Aerospace. She emphasized that not only does this technology boost operational capability, but it also simplifies the upgrade process, which can be essential for maintaining aircraft relevance over several years of service.

Streamlining Upgrades

One of the key advantages of integrating Mosarc into the Black Hawk helicopters is its potential to lower long-term maintenance and sustainment costs. The modular nature of the system allows for more efficient upgrades, translating to significant savings and improved operational readiness over the life cycle of the helicopters. Essentially, Mosarc aims to provide a common platform across the U.S. Army’s fleet, which includes both manned and unmanned aircraft, enhancing both capability and cost-effectiveness.

Where the Work Will Happen

The execution of this contract is set to take place in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Huntsville, Alabama, locations known for their cutting-edge aerospace technology sectors. This collaboration between different sites further cements Collins Aerospace’s reputation as a leader in developing state-of-the-art avionics solutions.

About Collins Aerospace and RTX

Collins Aerospace stands as a cornerstone in the global aerospace and defense industry, with an impressive workforce of over 80,000 employees dedicated to delivering innovative technology. Part of the RTX family, which is renowned for pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology, Collins Aerospace’s commitment to developing solutions that enhance safety and mission success is evident in this latest contract. RTX, the world’s largest aerospace and defense company, employs over 185,000 individuals and is dedicated to advancing technology that connects and protects our world while addressing the most critical challenges faced by global customers and the military.

This move not only represents a leap forward in helicopter technology but also highlights the growing emphasis on adaptable systems within military aviation. As threats evolve, so too must the technologies designed to counter them, and Collins Aerospace is on the front lines of this revolution, ensuring that the U.S. Army's Black Hawk helicopters remain at the forefront of operational capability.

In conclusion, the upgrade of Black Hawk avionics systems signifies a commitment to evolving military technology while maintaining high operational readiness amid changing battlefield demands. The future of the Black Hawk helicopter is looking brighter with these advancements, ensuring it remains an indispensable asset for the U.S. Army for decades to come.