Black Hawk Acquisition Halted: Budget Constraints and Scandals Derail Argentine Army Plans
Launched on December 2, 2024, the tender aimed to replace part of the Bell UH-1H and Huey II fleet to support air assault missions. However, just five days before the scheduled bid opening, the process was abruptly canceled due to a lack of allocated budgetary credits.
The Argentine Army has decided to cancel Public Tender No. 84/7-0942-LPU24, which sought to acquire three second-hand Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. This decision was formalized in a resolution signed by the head of the Army, General Carlos Presti, and published in the Official Gazette on January 2, 2025.
Launched on December 2, 2024, the tender aimed to replace part of the Bell UH-1H and Huey II fleet to support air assault missions. However, just five days before the scheduled bid opening, the process was abruptly canceled due to a lack of allocated budgetary credits. This shortfall stemmed from the government of Javier Milei extending the 2023 Budget for the second consecutive year, a decision that excluded helicopter purchases from the approved credit allocations.
Beyond budgetary constraints, the tender was marred by allegations of irregularities. According to Pucará Defensa, a specialized defense outlet, the bidding documents contained conditions that appeared to favor Helicopter Engine Service (H.E.S.), leading to suspicions that the process was a disguised direct purchase rather than a genuine competitive tender. These allegations drew criticism from other potential bidders and local aerospace associations, further tarnishing the process.
The situation was further complicated by ongoing scandals within the Army Aviation Directorate. According to the news site MDZ, previous issues involving the handling of spare parts for aircraft had already led to complaints and the removal of senior officials. This context of distrust amplified concerns over the tender’s integrity and contributed to its cancellation.
The decision to cancel the tender is a significant setback for the Argentine Army’s fleet modernization efforts. The Black Hawk helicopters were seen as critical assets for enhancing operational capabilities in air assault and logistical support missions.
While the UH-60 Black Hawk remains a preferred choice among high-ranking military officials, other options have emerged. Airbus Helicopters has offered its UH-72B Lakota through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, while India continues promoting its HAL LUH (Light Utility Helicopter) MK-1 and Dhruv medium utility helicopter. These alternatives could shape the Army’s future procurement plans as it navigates budgetary and operational challenges.
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