Washington: In one of his final acts as U.S. President, Joe Biden has approved a significant defense deal with India, marking a strategic milestone in the two nations' partnership. On Monday, Biden informed Congress of the $1.17 billion sale of MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopter equipment and associated systems to bolster India’s maritime capabilities.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) emphasized that the deal would enhance India's ability to counter existing and future submarine threats. Designed originally for the U.S. Navy, the MH-60R helicopters are touted as "rugged, powerful, and reliable," delivering advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capabilities to global navies.
“The proposed sale aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security goals by strengthening the U.S.-India strategic partnership and bolstering the security of a key defense ally, vital to stability in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia,” the DSCA stated.
Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the MH-60R helicopters include:
• Multi-mode radar and electronic support systems
• Electro-optical/infrared cameras and datalinks
• Advanced survivability systems, dipping sonar, and sonobuoys
• Torpedoes, air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and crew-served guns
A fully integrated mission system processes data from these sensors to create a comprehensive situational map of surface and subsurface environments. This actionable intelligence allows crews to effectively track, target, and neutralize threats.
The Indian Navy, which commissioned its first MH-60R Seahawk at INS Garuda in Kochi earlier this year, will receive helicopters customized to meet its unique operational requirements. These modifications include specialized systems such as Identification Friend-or-Foe (IFF) transponders from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and additional integrations by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
The deal also includes advanced support elements like data transfer systems, external fuel tanks, spare parts, munitions, and technical assistance.
Globally, 330 MH-60Rs are operational, serving navies in the United States, Denmark, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and now India. These helicopters are renowned for their versatility, performing missions including search and rescue, medical evacuation, command and control, and vertical replenishment. Lockheed Martin’s Performance-Based Logistics program ensures an exceptional 95% flight readiness rate for these helicopters, setting a benchmark in maritime aviation.
Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems is the principal contractor for the sale, with collaboration from Indian entities such as HAL and BEL. To oversee the transfer and provide technical support, 20 U.S. government personnel and 25 contractors will temporarily travel to India.
This landmark defense deal signifies a deeper strategic alignment between the United States and India, reinforcing their shared vision for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.