(Seoul, April 23, 2025) - Korean Air has been selected as the preferred bidder to conduct performance upgrade program for the UH-60 helicopter, a key asset in the Republic of Korea armed forces.

Korean Air Aerospace Division participated in the bid as part of a consortium with LIG Nex1 and Collins Aerospace, and received notification of its selection as the preferred bidder from the Republic of Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). The project is valued at approximately KRW 961.3 billion.

The UH-60, commonly known as the ‘Black Hawk,’ serves as a multi-purpose helicopter utilized by the Republic of Korea Army and Air Force for special operations. The core objective of this modernization is to enhance a total of 36 UH-60 helicopters. This involves digital cockpits upgrades and implementing comprehensive performance improvements covering engines, survivability systems, communication suites, integrated depot maintenance, and force integration support elements.

Korean Air's involvement with the UH-60 platform includes licensed production and localization efforts between 1991 and 1999, resulting in the fielding of over 130 aircraft. The division currently provides depot maintenance and partial performance upgrades and modifications. Decades of technical expertise and insight are attributed as favorable evaluation factors in the bid assessment.

Korean Air will enter into detailed negotiations with DAPA regarding technical specifications and contract terms before finalizing the agreement. The aerospace division plans to commence delivery of the upgraded helicopters to the military in 2029.

"Securing the preferred bidder status enables us to apply our expertise to this critical UH-60 upgrade program," said a Korean Air spokesperson. "We are committed to leveraging our platform expertise to deliver leading MRO and upgrade solutions, to enhance the military's operational capabilities and force readiness."