New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOAs) with the United States government to secure comprehensive sustainment support for the Indian Navy’s fleet of MH-60R helicopters. The five-year agreement, valued at approximately Rs 7,995 crore, was formalized under the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme in the presence of Defence Secretary Mr. Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi.
Comprehensive Sustainment Support Package
The sustainment support agreement covers a wide range of services, including the provisioning of spares, support equipment, technical support, product support, and training. The pact also includes repair and replenishment of helicopter components and the establishment of ‘Intermediate’ level component repair and Periodic Maintenance Inspection (PMI) facilities in India.
These in-country facilities are expected to enhance self-reliance and align with the Government of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. The initiative will foster indigenous capability development and create opportunities for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and other Indian firms to contribute to defence production and services.
Enhanced Operational Capability
The support package is set to significantly improve the operational availability and maintainability of the MH-60R helicopters, which are advanced, all-weather, anti-submarine warfare capable platforms acquired from the US. The agreement will enable these helicopters to operate efficiently from dispersed locations and naval ships, ensuring optimal performance in all primary and secondary missions of the Indian Navy.
Strategic Implications
The deal underscores India’s growing defence collaboration with the US while simultaneously boosting domestic defence infrastructure and capabilities. The establishment of repair and maintenance facilities within India is expected to reduce dependence on foreign support in the long run and strengthen the Navy’s readiness.
About MH-60R Helicopters
The Sikorsky MH-60 Seahawk, an all-weather, multi-mission naval helicopter, is a twin-turboshaft aircraft widely used by the U.S. Navy and international partners like the Indian Navy. There are two primary active variants: the MH-60R “Romeo” and the MH-60S “Knighthawk”.
General Specifications
- Powerplant: Two General Electric T700-GE-401C turboshaft engines.
- Maximum Speed: Approximately 267 km/h (144 knots).
- Range: The MH-60R has a range of about 454 km, while the MH-60T Jayhawk variant has a range of over 1,300 km (700 nautical miles).
- Crew: Typically requires a crew of three or four.
- Operational Roles: Designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), search and rescue (SAR), logistics, and special operations.
Key Variant Differences
MH-60R Romeo: Focuses on ASW and ASuW with advanced digital sensors, multi-mode radar, and dipping sonar. Its primary weapons include Hellfire missiles and Mark 54 torpedoes.
MH-60S Knighthawk: Features a larger cabin based on the UH-60 Black Hawk airframe, optimized for vertical replenishment (VERTREP), combat SAR, and airborne mine countermeasures.
