India and US Sign $946 Million Sustainment Deal for MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter Fleet: Enhancing Naval Capabilities and Defense Partnership

Washington:

The United States has announced a major advancement in defense collaboration with India following New Delhi's signing of a sustainment package for the Indian Navy's MH-60R "Seahawk" helicopter fleet.

India's Ministry of Defence has authorized a contract valued at approximately Rs 7,995 crore (roughly USD 946 million) to support 24 MH-60R helicopters manufactured by Lockheed Martin. This agreement is designed to enhance long-term operational readiness, bolster interoperability with US forces, and strengthen maritime security across the Indian Ocean region.

The US State Department shared on X platform: "Great news in our defence relationship with India. India's Ministry of Defence signed a sustainment package for its 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, developed by Lockheed Martin. This 946 million dollar package will enhance the Indian Navy's maritime capabilities, build interoperability with the U.S. and regional partners, and make both our nations safer and more prosperous."

India acquired these helicopters under a Foreign Military Sales agreement in 2020 and has so far incorporated approximately 15 aircraft into service. The MH-60R Seahawk functions as a multi-role maritime helicopter capable of anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface operations, search-and-rescue missions, surveillance activities, and ship-based deployments.

The sustainment package is anticipated to improve helicopter availability and decrease maintenance time, facilitating operations from both coastal facilities and naval vessels. Additionally, it will assist India in establishing local maintenance infrastructure, reducing dependence on foreign service providers, and more effectively integrating these helicopters into maritime operations.

Outfitted with long-range sensors and compatible weapons systems, the MH-60R enhances India's capabilities to detect submarines, safeguard sea lanes, support carrier groups, and address maritime threats. The helicopter was officially inducted into the Indian Navy in 2021, with the first squadron, INAS 334, being commissioned at INS Garuda in Kochi.

For surface operations, the helicopter can deploy AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, lightweight torpedoes, and machine guns, complemented by advanced radar and electro-optical systems for identifying and engaging hostile surface targets. Its anti-submarine warfare capabilities include dipping sonar, sonobuoys, multi-mode radar, and the Mk-54 torpedo.

Commonly referred to as the "Romeo," the MH-60R Seahawk is utilized by the US Navy and partner nations worldwide, serving as a versatile platform for surveillance, search-and-rescue, medical evacuation, and warship-based operations.