India–US Sign $946 Million MH-60R Sustainment Deal: Naval Readiness

India Signs $946 Million MH-60R Sustainment Deal, Enhancing Maritime Readiness

India has signed a $946 million sustainment agreement with the United States to support its fleet of 24 MH-60R Seahawk naval helicopters, marking a major boost to maritime capability and naval aviation preparedness. The pact strengthens long-term operational support and underscores deepening defence cooperation between New Delhi and Washington amid evolving Indo-Pacific dynamics.

Strategic Timing and Diplomatic Context

Finalised days before the India–Russia Annual Summit , the agreement highlights India’s calibrated approach to defence partnerships. Analysts view the move as reinforcing India’s commitment to sustained readiness in the Indo-Pacific while engaging strategically with diverse global partners. The deal signals continuity in India–US defence cooperation, particularly in maritime security.

Scope of the Five-Year Sustainment Contract

Concluded under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mechanism, the package includes a comprehensive suite of support measures. These cover spare parts, specialist tools, technical documentation, training modules, component repair facilities and on-ground technical assistance in India. The setup ensures higher helicopter availability for missions from shore bases and Indian Navy warships.

Enhanced Maritime Operations Capability

The sustainment framework will significantly improve India’s ability to conduct anti-submarine warfare (ASW) , maritime surveillance, search-and-rescue missions, humanitarian assistance and carrier operations. Establishing intermediate-level repair infrastructure within India will reduce turnaround time and future dependency on overseas maintenance hubs, supporting self-reliance in defence readiness.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Deal value: $946 million (~₹7,995 crore) for sustainment over five years.

• India ordered 24 MH-60Rs in 2020 under an earlier FMS contract.

• First deliveries in 2021 led to formation of INAS 334 in Kochi.

• MH-60R manufactured by Lockheed Martin .

MH-60R: A Key Asset in India’s Naval Strategy

The MH-60R is a multi-role, all-weather maritime helicopter equipped with advanced systems such as the AN/AQS-22 dipping sonar , sonobuoys, multi-mode radar, electronic support measures and Mk-54 lightweight torpedoes . Its versatility in ASW, anti-surface warfare and ship-based operations makes it central to India’s modern maritime posture.

With this sustainment agreement, India strengthens not only the longevity of its MH-60R fleet but also its broader strategic capabilities in safeguarding the Indian Ocean Region.