Royal Thai Army receives new Black Hawk and Little Bird helicopters

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has expanded its rotary-winged aviation fleet with the formal acceptance of four new Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters. The aircraft were officially inducted into service during a ceremony in Lopburi on September 18, 2026.

These new Black Hawks will be operated by the 9th Aviation Battalion of the Army Aviation Center. This addition brings the RTA’s total Black Hawk fleet to 22 aircraft, including various refurbished models and previous purchases.

Additionally, Thailand has begun receiving its first Boeing AH-6i Little Bird helicopters. An initial batch of at least four units was observed being unloaded at the Kerry Siam Seaport in Chonburi Province on September 27, 2026. These aircraft are intended to replace the RTA’s remaining Bell AH-1F Cobra attack helicopters and are capable of firing Hellfire missiles.