India Signs Rs 7,995 Crore Deal with US for Navy's MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter Support Package

The MH-60R Seahawk helicopter is designed for multi-mission capabilities in all weather conditions.

New Delhi:

India has finalized a Rs 7,995 crore agreement with the United States for a five-year "follow on support" package for the Indian Navy's fleet of 24 Seahawk helicopters.

This contract comes during a period of some diplomatic tension, following US President Donald Trump's recent imposition of 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods in late August.

According to the defence ministry, Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOAs) were signed with the US for sustainment support of the MH60R helicopter fleet through follow-on support and supply arrangements covering five years, valued at approximately Rs 7,995 crore.

The MH-60R, produced by Lockheed Martin Corporation, is a sophisticated all-weather helicopter equipped with advanced avionics and sensors designed to support multiple missions.

These LOAs were established under the United States' foreign military sales program.

The original agreement for the procurement of 24 MH-60R helicopters was signed between India and the US in February 2020. The MH-60R Seahawk represents a maritime adaptation of the well-known Blackhawk helicopter.

The comprehensive sustainment support package includes provisions for spare parts, support equipment, product support, training resources, technical assistance, component repair services, and periodic maintenance inspection facilities.

The agreement also facilitates the establishment of intermediate-level component repair capabilities and maintenance inspection facilities within India for these helicopters.

The defence ministry stated, "Developing these facilities within the country will ensure long-term capability building and reduced dependence on the US government, aligning with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)."

"This initiative will further promote indigenous product and service development through MSMEs (Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) and other Indian companies," the ministry added in its statement.

According to the defence ministry, this sustainment support will significantly enhance both the operational availability and maintainability of the MH60R helicopters, which also possess anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

"Additionally, this support will enable the operation of these helicopters from various dispersed locations as well as naval vessels, ensuring optimal performance across all their primary and secondary missions," the ministry explained.

The initial delivery of three MH-60R helicopters to India took place in 2021.