Two Army UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters escorted by an AH-64 Apache helicopter to Kirkuk Iraq reveal who is fish bait and who is not. Thank you Viper 262 for sharing this true story of Blackhawk Fish bait.

Blackhawk Fishbait

The UH-60 Blackhawk is a four-blade, twin-engine, medium-lift utility helicopter manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft Company. The aircraft is the Army’s front-line utility helicopter used for air assault, special operations, and aeromedical evacuation units. It is designed to carry eleven combat-loaded, air assault troops, and it is capable of moving a 105-millimeter howitzer! The H-60 airframe is also used in the Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force and by the Marine Corps to support Air Force One.

In the bustling skies over Kirkuk, Iraq, two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters were on a routine mission, carrying supplies and personnel. They were flanked by their escort, an AH-64 Apache helicopter, tasked with ensuring their safety.

As they flew over the city, the Apache pilot decided it was the perfect time for some playful banter. “Hey Blackhawks,” the Apache’s voice crackled over the radio, “mind if I ask: Who’s the fish bait here? Because I’ve got a feeling I’m the one holding back the predators while you two enjoy the ride.”

One of the Blackhawk pilots chuckled and replied, “Fish bait? Nah, we’re more like the main course. You’re just here to keep the hungry fish away. Don’t worry, we won’t let them get too close. We’d hate for them to snag a ‘real’ target.”

The other Blackhawk pilot joined in, “Yeah, Apache, we appreciate the escort. But let’s be honest—if anyone’s the bait, it’s us. We’re carrying the cargo, and everyone knows that cargo’s always the prime target. You’re the sharp, sleek predator up here. We’re just the big, flying bullseyes.”

Apache Amusement…

The Apache’s rotor blades spun with amusement. “Oh, so now I’m a predator, huh? I’ll have you know I’ve got the firepower to make sure those ‘fish’ stay far away from you guys. If anyone’s going to be lunch, it’ll be me making sure they don’t get a bite of anything.”

The first Blackhawk pilot played along, “Right, right. Just remember, if things go sideways, it’s not like we’re out of the fight. We might not be able to shoot missiles, but we’ve got plenty of chaff and flares. So, while you’re busy being the hero, we’ll be your trusty sidekicks, trying not to get turned into a dinner plate.”

The Apache pilot laughed, “Fair point. I guess we’re all in this together. And hey, if anyone does come sniffing around, I’ll make sure to keep them entertained while you two fly away with your cargo.”

The second Blackhawk pilot added with a grin, “Just don’t let your head get too big up there, Apache. If you get too cocky, we might just have to send you a ‘thank you’ basket full of fish bait ourselves. Consider it a token of our appreciation for the escort.”

The Apache pilot shook his head with a chuckle. “Deal. But remember, Blackhawks, no matter how this plays out, I’ve got your six. Just try to stay out of trouble, will you? I’d hate to have to rescue you two while dodging missiles myself.”

The helicopters continued their flight, the camaraderie between them evident even as they playfully ribbed each other. Above the streets of Kirkuk, they flew as a team, each playing their part in the mission, and enjoying the banter along the way.

The Frontlines

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