FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. –
The Black Hawk Exchange and Sales Transaction Program, also known as BEST, authorizes the Army to sell used and outdated military equipment and use the proceeds to fund new and improved equipment. The 11-year program has generated a new beginning for the Army while continuing to benefit the government.
The program is given permission by the General Service Administration to exchange and sell equipment. They take old and heavily-used military equipment that is around 17-25 years old, and puts them up for auction. So far, the Army has auctioned over 600 flightworthy aircraft to the federal government, civilian buyers and other entities.
“This UH-60L model is being transported to Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Theresa Perry, a logistics management and property book officer at Fort Indiantown Gap's Army Aviation Support Facility #1. “UH-60 A/L models are being replaced with M and V models which is why this aircraft is being turned in.”
Aircraft 84-24011, in particular, was assigned to be picked up July 24, 2024. It had a total of 6417.8 flight hours and was flying from November 5, 1984 until October 17, 2023. The aircraft was lifted onto a flatbed truck and transported to the BEST recapitalization program.
“This benefits the Army by being able to decommission older aircraft that through time have developed airframe fatigue.” Perry said. “It also gives the opportunity for older, antiquated parts to be replaced by newer designed parts, updated electronics and flight and navigational systems.”
Fort Indiantown Gap has participated in the BEST program since 2018, and continues to work with them to update their aircraft. Giving the Army the chance to purchase new equipment gives service members updated technology, new exhaust overhauls, new interior, a fresh paint job and cockpits that are touch-screen.