Sikorsky VH-60N White Hawk

The presidential helicopter built for secure executive transport.

Overview

Sikorsky Helicopter United States ICAO: VH60 1988–1989 $10.6 million (1988)

The Sikorsky VH-60N White Hawk is a specialized variant of the UH-60 Black Hawk used for executive transport. Introduced in the late 1980s, it serves the President of the United States and other senior officials. The aircraft incorporates secure communications and enhanced safety systems.

Live Fleet Activity (VH60)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × General Electric T700-GE-401
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
2 × 1,890 shp · 1,409 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
6
Crew
—
Cabin width
7 ft 0 in  ·  2.13 m
Cabin height
4 ft 6 in  ·  1.37 m
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
64 ft 10 in  ·  19.76 m
Tail height
16 ft 10 in  ·  5.13 m
Fuselage diameter
7 ft 9 in  ·  2.36 m
Wing span
53 ft 8 in  ·  16.36 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
23,500 lb  ·  10,700 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
2,650 lb  ·  1,200 kg
Fuel capacity
360 gal · 1,400 L · 1,100 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
159 kt  ·  183 mph  ·  294 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
1,199 nm  ·  1,380 mi  ·  2,220 km
Fuel burn
—
Ceiling
19,000 ft  ·  5,800 m
Rate of climb
700 ft/min  ·  4 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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VH-60N White Hawk

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Operational Context

Sikorsky VH-60N White Hawk — executive transport helicopter

The VH-60N first entered service in 1989 as part of the Marine Helicopter Squadron tasked with presidential transport. Based on the UH-60 platform, it features upgraded avionics, secure communications, and additional safety equipment. The helicopter retains the twin-engine, four-blade main rotor configuration.

Powered by two General Electric T700 turboshaft engines producing approximately 1,940 shaft horsepower each, the VH-60N cruises at around 150 knots (278 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 22,000 pounds (9,979 kg). The cabin is configured for executive seating and secure operations.

The White Hawk has supported presidential and VIP missions for decades. It remains a critical component of U.S. executive air transport. The aircraft is gradually being supplemented by newer presidential helicopter platforms.

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