New Delhi: The Defence Ministry recently sealed a deal with the United States to provide support for the Indian Navy’s MH-60R helicopter fleet. This agreement, valued at around ₹7,995 crores, was established under the Foreign Military Sales program.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh oversaw the signing of these Letters of Offer and Acceptance. The support package includes spare parts, technical assistance, training, and maintenance facilities in India. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the helicopters’ operational readiness and overall reliability.
The MH-60R Seahawk is designed for anti-submarine warfare and can operate in all weather conditions. With this new support framework, the Indian Navy expects improved performance, allowing for effective operations from various bases and frontline warships.
The Indian Navy first introduced the MH-60R in March 2024 at INS Garuda in Kochi. These helicopters form part of a larger fleet of 24 aircraft procured from the US under a deal made in February 2020. The establishment of this sustainment program not only strengthens logistics but also aligns with India’s goal of self-reliance in defense (Aatmanirbhar Bharat). This will create opportunities for local firms and encourage participation from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Recent data shows that defense expenditures in India have been on the rise, with a reported increase of 4% in the last fiscal year. This trend emphasizes the government’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities. Experts often highlight that robust support systems like this one are essential for maintaining advanced equipment and ensuring operational flexibility.
Overall, this partnership with the US is poised to bolster the Indian Navy’s capabilities, ultimately enhancing national security in an increasingly complex regional environment.
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LETTERS OF OFFER AND ACCEPTANCE, DEFENCE MINISTRY, INDIAN NAVY, HELICOPTERS, INDIA US TIES, DEFENCE MINISTRY SIGNS LETTERS OF OFFER AND ACCEPTANCE WITH US
