India–US $946 Million MH-60R Seahawk Deal

India has finalised a $946 million sustainment agreement with the United States to support its fleet of 24 MH-60R Seahawk naval helicopters. The package strengthens India’s maritime preparedness, boosts naval aviation support systems, and deepens defence cooperation with Washington at a time of heightened strategic activity in the region.

Strategic Timing of the Agreement

The deal comes just ahead of the India–Russia Annual Summit, drawing global attention to New Delhi’s balanced defence engagements with major powers. Observers note that the announcement underscores India’s focus on maintaining readiness in the Indo-Pacific while diversifying defence partnerships.

Scope of the Sustainment Package

The agreement, concluded under the US Foreign Military Sales framework through Letters of Offer and Acceptance, covers a five-year sustainment cycle. It includes spare parts, support equipment, training modules, technical assistance, and component repair facilities within India. These measures ensure operational availability for missions from shore bases and frontline warships.

Enhancements to Naval Capabilities

The MH-60R sustainment plan enables high-tempo operations such as anti-submarine warfare patrols, maritime surveillance, humanitarian tasks, and carrier-based deployments. With intermediate-level repair and inspection infrastructure being set up domestically, the Navy will reduce turnaround time and dependence on foreign maintenance hubs.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The MH-60R Seahawk is manufactured by Lockheed Martin.
• India ordered 24 MH-60R helicopters in 2020 under an earlier procurement contract.
• The first three MH-60Rs were delivered in 2021, leading to the commissioning of INAS 334 in Kochi.
• The package value translates to approximately ₹7,995 crore for five years of support.

Role and Features of the MH-60R Platform

The MH-60R is a multi-role maritime helicopter designed for anti-submarine and anti-surface missions. It carries advanced systems including the AN/AQS-22 dipping sonar, sonobuoys, multi-mode radar, and Mk-54 torpedoes. Its all-weather capability, ship-borne flexibility, and mission versatility make it a key asset in India’s evolving naval strategy.