India and US Seal $946M Deal to Boost Navy’s MH-60R Helicopter Fleet
India and the US have strengthened their defence ties with a new sustainment deal for the Indian Navy’s MH-60R 'Seahawk' helicopters. The agreement, signed with Lockheed Martin, ensures long-term support for the 24 helicopters already in service since their induction in 2021.
The Rs 7,995 crore (USD 946 million) contract aims to boost operational readiness and deepen cooperation between the two nations.
The MH-60R 'Seahawk' helicopters were formally introduced into the Indian Navy in 2021. These advanced aircraft handle a wide range of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface operations, and search-and-rescue tasks. They also support surveillance, medical evacuations, and special operations.
The newly approved sustainment package will reduce maintenance downtime, allowing the helicopters to operate smoothly from both shore bases and warships. A key focus of the deal is developing stronger maintenance and repair infrastructure within India. This move will cut reliance on foreign service providers and improve self-sufficiency.
The US State Department emphasised the importance of the agreement, noting it will enhance the Indian Navy’s maritime capabilities. It will also improve interoperability with the US and regional partners. The helicopters, equipped with long-range sensors and mission systems, play a critical role in the Indian Ocean’s contested waters.
The sustainment deal reinforces the India-US defence partnership while ensuring the Indian Navy’s MH-60R fleet remains mission-ready. With reduced downtime and enhanced local maintenance, the helicopters will continue supporting a broad range of operations across the region. The agreement also marks a step toward greater self-reliance in defence logistics for India.
