Strengthening Naval Readiness
Maritime Boost Through MH60R Sustainment Deal: India has approved a ₹7,900 crore agreement with the United States to support the MH60R Seahawk fleet, marking a major upgrade in naval aviation readiness. The deal falls under the FMS programme, showing the growing defence partnership between the two nations. The agreement ensures life cycle support for one of India’s most advanced multirole maritime helicopters.
Components of the Sustainment Package
The agreement includes a full suite of sustainment services to keep the helicopters combatready. It covers spare parts, technical support, component repair, and specialised training for maintenance teams. India will also establish intermediate-level inspection and repair facilities, reducing delays and strengthening operational availability.
Static GK fact: The MH60R belongs to the Sikorsky S70 family, inducted by several navies including the US, Australia, and Denmark.
Push Toward Indigenous Logistics
A major highlight of the approval is its alignment with Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The sustainment model encourages participation from Indian MSMEs, enabling local firms to support components of maintenance and repair. This shift strengthens India’s defence ecosystem by building longterm logistical capabilities.
Static GK fact: India’s Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) has steadily expanded indigenous content requirements for major military purchases.
Capabilities of MH60R Seahawk
The MH60R, often called the “Romeo”, is a versatile maritime platform developed by Lockheed Martin. It excels in anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and search and rescue operations. India ordered 24 units in 2020 to enhance maritime surveillance and blue-water operations.
Static GK Tip: The Indian Navy’s aviation arm was established in 1951, beginning with the commissioning of INS Garuda.
Strategic Significance
The sustainment deal strengthens India’s presence in the IndoPacific, where maritime competition and security challenges are increasing. Ensuring the helicopters remain missionready enhances deterrence and supports complex naval missions. It also reflects deepening defence cooperation between India and the US, supporting longterm interoperability and trust.
Static GK fact: The IndoPacific region hosts key chokepoints like the Strait of Malacca, through which nearly one-third of global trade passes.
Enhancing LongTerm Maritime Power
With full lifecycle support ensured, India’s maritime forces will gain better response capability across anti-submarine operations, longrange patrols, and humanitarian missions. The deal builds the foundation for faster repairs, lower maintenance costs, and improved selfreliance. It underscores India’s commitment to a capable and modern naval fleet.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Maritime Boost Through MH60R Sustainment Deal:
| Topic | Detail |
| Deal Value | ₹7,900 crore sustainment agreement |
| Partner Country | United States |
| Programme | Foreign Military Sales |
| Helicopter Type | MH60R Seahawk |
| Key Capability | Anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare |
| Indigenous Push | MSME participation in logistics |
| Repair Facilities | Intermediate-level repair hubs in India |
| Original Induction Year | India placed order in 2020 |
| Strategic Region | IndoPacific |
| Developer | Lockheed Martin |
