US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) continues to standardize, and modernize, its aviation fleet through the long-term acquisition of UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter variants and H125 helicopters for units across the nation

AMO accepted the first of 17 Airbus H125 helicopters (the new manufacturer designation for AS350 models) in Grand Prairie, Texas, on August 11. The H125 aircraft will replace EC120 and older AS350 models. This shift toward a standardized fleet demonstrates a commitment to modernization and increased effectiveness.  The most recent acquisitions of the UH-60 and H125 models occurred in August 2020. The El Paso Air Branch received two UH-60 helicopter variants to replace UH-1 Huey models, enabling increased speed, range, and capability to transport twice the amount of personnel. AMO will allocate 12 additional UH-60 helicopter variants, which will bring the fleet to a total of 35 by Fiscal Year 2027.

AMO’s objective to streamline airframes reduces operational and training costs; mitigates training requirements for pilots, crew, and maintenance personnel; increases crew capabilities and interoperability between units; and directly aligns with AMO Vision and Strategy 2030 goals.

In Fiscal Year 2019, AMO enforcement actions resulted in the approximate seizure or disruption of 284,825 pounds of cocaine; 101,874 pounds of marijuana; 51,058 pounds of methamphetamine; 935 weapons and $34.1 million. AMO enforcement actions also facilitated 1,575 arrests and 52,036 apprehensions of illegal aliens.AMO safeguards our Nation by anticipating and confronting security threats through our aviation and maritime law enforcement expertise, innovative capabilities, and partnerships at the border and beyond. With approximately 1,800 federal agents and mission support personnel, 240 aircraft and 300 marine vessels operating throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands, AMO serves as the nation’s experts in airborne and maritime law enforcement.

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