The Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has published photos of reconnaissance pilots after completing a combat mission, revealing an unannounced American Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopter in the country's military fleet.

Ukraine's army aviation has Soviet/Russian helicopters, such as the Mi-8 and Mi-24, which were inherited from the Soviet Union. Since Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Western countries have also transferred similar types of helicopters to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. However, none of these countries have publicly announced the transfer of Black Hawk helicopters to Ukraine.

The published photos show two helicopters, an Mi-24 and a Black Hawk. The caption to the pictures reads: "As soon as the reconnaissance pilots returned after completing another combat mission. Combat helicopters significantly increase the capabilities of special units of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of Ukraine and the efficiency of special operations. The pilots of the Main Directorate of Reconnaissance of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine continue to destroy the enemy in all areas of the front."

It is unclear whether the Black Hawk was directly transferred to Ukraine by the United States of America or by another country, such as Poland, which also has such aircraft. However, it is unlikely that any country could transfer the Black Hawk without U.S. permission. The addition of the Black Hawk helicopter to Ukraine's military fleet is a significant upgrade to its existing Soviet/Russian helicopter fleet, and it enhances the country's military capabilities in special operations.

Black Hawk (left) and Mi-24 helicopters of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine

Sikorsky Black Hawk is an American-made utility helicopter used for a variety of purposes, including transportation of troops, medical evacuation, and combat operations. The Black Hawk is one of the most widely used helicopters in the world, with variants in service in over 25 countries.

Developed by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in the 1970s, the Black Hawk has become a highly recognizable and versatile aircraft, with more than 4,000 units produced. It has been deployed in numerous conflicts, including the Gulf War, the War in Afghanistan, and the Iraq War, and has gained a reputation for its durability and reliability in combat situations.

Source: Defence Intelligence of Ukraine