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Military Helicopters ·Sikorsky

VH-60 White Hawk

American presidential transport helicopter, recognized for service from the late 20th century to the present, laden with advanced security systems. Key figures: top speed 257 km/h, range 2,200 km, service ceiling 5,790 m, max takeoff weight 10,660 kg, unit price $30M, built 9.

Max speed
257km/h
Range
2,200km
Produced
9units
Avg unit price
$30 million
Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk military helicopters side profile drawing
Side profile · Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk · length 19.6 m
Technical SpecificationsVersion: VH-60 White Hawk
Crew4
Length19.6 m (64.3 ft)
Wingspan16.4 m (53.7 ft)
Height5.1 m (16.7 ft)
Empty weight6,850 kg (15,102 lbs)
Max. takeoff weight10,660 kg (23,501 lbs)
Powerplant2 × General Electric T700-GE-401 1,260 kW each
PerformanceVersion: VH-60 White Hawk
Maximum speed257 km/h (160 mph)
Operational range2,200 km (1,367 mi)
Service ceiling5,790 m (18,996 ft)
Climb rate3.6 m/s (11.8 ft/s)
All Operators
🇺🇸 United States
Similar Aircraft
VH-60 White Hawk vs

Description

The VH-60 White Hawk is a special version of the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, designed for the transport of the President, Vice President, and other high-ranking American officials. Based in Quantico, Virginia, the Marine Corps' Executive Helicopter Squadron is responsible for the VH-60 fleet.

Operational History

When the President is on board, the helicopter is referred to as "Marine One" on radio communications, while the one carrying the Vice President is called "Marine Two". The designations "Marine One Foxtrot" and "Marine Two Foxtrot" are used when the President's or Vice President's family is on board, respectively.

The VH-60 White Hawk, delivered starting from 1988, can accommodate up to 10 passengers, with a crew consisting of a pilot, co-pilot, flight attendant, and communication systems specialist. As a government VIP transport helicopter, it features luxurious accommodations and meticulous maintenance.

Compared to its predecessor, the VH-3D Sea King, the VH-60 has the advantage of being foldable in less than two hours for transportation on US Air Force cargo aircraft such as the C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III, or C-130 Hercules. Thus, it often accompanies the US President during domestic or international trips to provide helicopter support.

Wikipedia (CC BY-SA) and other open sources. Illustrations generated by AI. Last updated on 5 August 2026. Suggest a change

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of aircraft is the VH-60 White Hawk?
The Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk is a military helicopters aircraft developed by Sikorsky and entered service in 1989.
What is the maximum speed of the VH-60 White Hawk?
The Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk has a maximum speed of 257 km/h (159 mph).
What is the range of the VH-60 White Hawk?
The Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk has an operational range of 2,200 km (1,367 miles). This range can vary based on payload, altitude, and mission profile.
When did the VH-60 White Hawk first fly?
The Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk made its first flight on November 29, 1974. It entered operational service in 1989.
How many VH-60 White Hawk have been built?
9 units of the Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk have been produced since it entered service in 1989.
How much does a VH-60 White Hawk cost?
The Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk has an estimated unit cost of approximately $30.0 million. Actual prices vary based on configuration, quantity ordered, and included support packages.
What is the service ceiling of the VH-60 White Hawk?
The Sikorsky VH-60 White Hawk has a service ceiling of 5,790 meters (18,996 feet). This is the maximum altitude at which the aircraft can maintain controlled flight.
Latest Data Updates
  1. AUG 52026 Updated Climb rate added
  2. APR 72026 Updated Sources and cross-references refreshed