The platform, set to replace the HH-60G Pave Hawk, was designed to enable the USAF to conduct rescue missions at greater ranges and in challenging environments.

According to Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, the platform’s capabilities include:

• expanded aerodynamic and hover performance;
• increased main full tank – 644 gallons v 360 gallons – and air refuellable for greater range;
• advanced and integrated survivability and defensive systems;
• expanded communications including two tactical data links and intel receivers for net-centric connectivity to operate in the joint-all domain environment;
• higher resolution sensors;
• larger main cabin; and
• upgraded armour and ballistic protection.

These features are tipped to support emerging Joint All-Domain Operations (JADO) requirements in near peer competition and win in conflict.

The next-generation helicopter is expected to be used to recover isolated personnel from hostile territory in varying conditions and across a “full range of threat environments”.

Nathalie Previte, vice president, Sikorsky army and air force systems, noted the significance of the IOC declaration.

“This declaration is a vote of confidence from US Air Force leadership and demonstrates the critical role of, and need for, the HH-60W,” Previte said.

“Sikorsky is committed to continuing deliveries of the Department of Defense’s only dedicated combat search and rescue (CSAR) helicopter and to provide the most capable platform to rescue crews who depend on this aircraft day in and day out to conduct vital life-saving missions.”

The IOC declaration is the latest milestone for a Sikorsky platform, with the company recently announcing its S-92 helicopters — used in search and rescue, oil and gas transportation and VIP transportation — surpassed two million flight hours across deployments in 28 countries.

The S-92’s use has increased over the past decade, with the platform achieving one million flight hours in just six years, compared to the first million — achieved 12 years after the platform entered service.

[Related: Sikorsky S-92 helicopters achieve major milestone]