Portuguese Air Force Firefighting UH-60 Makes Inaugural Flight

The firefighting-capable aircraft boasts the capacity to transport up to a dozen crewmembers, as well as carry more than 750 gallons of water.

Kimberly Johnson

Monday, December 18, 2023 at 12:19 PM ET

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The first UH-60 flew November 12 from Ovar Air Base (LPOV). [Courtesy: Portuguese Air Force]

Key Takeaways:

Portugal's first two firefighting-capable Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters have made their inaugural flights from Ovar Air Base.
These helicopters are part of a $47 million contract with Arista Aviation for six aircraft, intended for aerial combat of rural fires and transport.
The Black Hawks can carry over 750 gallons of water and up to 12 crewmembers, with the remaining four aircraft scheduled for delivery by 2026.

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Portugal’s first firefighting-capable Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters have made their first flights in the country, according to the Portuguese Air Force.

The inaugural flight of the two UH-60 aircraft took place last week from Ovar Air Base (LPOV) in Ovar, Portugal, where the aircraft will be based, the service said Saturday.