New Delhi: MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter has become one of the Indian Navy’s most important naval helicopters. India has received another MH-60R Seahawk from the United States, with two more helicopters expected to arrive soon. The latest delivery strengthens the India-US defence partnership and improves India’s ability to protect its seas, detect submarines, and carry out maritime security operations.
Another MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter Arrives in India
The United States has delivered another MH-60R Seahawk helicopter to the Indian Navy. The helicopter reached Kochi last week and was handed over as part of India’s ongoing order for 24 advanced naval helicopters. It also confirmed that two more MH-60R Seahawk helicopters are expected to arrive in India this week. The delivery reflects the growing defence cooperation between India and the United States.
What Did the US Embassy Say
According to the US Embassy in India, the arrival of another MH-60R Seahawk shows the strong and expanding defence relationship between the two countries. The Embassy said it is pleased to see the India-US defence partnership becoming stronger with every new delivery.
India’s Order for 24 MH-60R Seahawk Helicopters
India signed a deal with the United States in 2020 to buy 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme. These helicopters are manufactured by Lockheed Martin and are among the world’s most advanced naval helicopters. India is receiving the helicopters in phases.
₹7,995 Crore Support Agreement Signed
In December 2025, India and the United States signed a ₹7,995 crore (around USD 946 million) support package for the MH-60R Seahawk fleet. The agreement covers:
- Spare parts
- Maintenance support
- Logistics
- Technical assistance
- Fleet readiness
The goal is to keep all 24 helicopters ready for operations at all times.
Why Is the MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter Important
The MH-60R Seahawk is a multi-role maritime helicopter designed for different naval missions. It can perform:
- Anti-submarine warfare
- Anti-surface warfare
- Maritime surveillance
- Search and rescue
- Medical evacuation
- Ship-based operations
The helicopter helps the Indian Navy monitor large sea areas and respond quickly to threats.
What are the Features of the MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter
The MH-60R Seahawk comes with modern military technology. Its key features include:
- Long-range surveillance radar
- Dipping sonar
- Sonobuoys
- Electro-optical sensors
- AGM-114 Hellfire missiles
- MK-54 lightweight torpedoes
- Machine guns
These systems help detect enemy submarines, track ships, and protect India’s maritime borders.
Indian Navy Already Using the
The Indian Navy commissioned its first MH-60R Seahawk squadron (INAS 334) at INS Garuda in Kochi in March 2024. A second squadron was later added to increase operational strength. Former Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi said the helicopters performed successfully during Operation Sindoor and proved their operational value.
