MH-60R Helicopter for UPSC Exam Preparation

Why in news

• The Indian Navy has ordered 24 MH-60R helicopters in 2020, with deliveries commencing in 2022 and completing by 2025 at a cost of over ₹14,000 crores.
• Now US okays $1.2-bn MH-60R helicopter equipment sale to India.

About MH-60R Seahawk Helicopter

• It is manufactured by Lockheed Martin and is the U.S. Navy's most advanced maritime helicopter and plays a vital role in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW).
• It is specifically designed to support all-weather and multi-mission operations, making it a key asset for the Indian Navy and other global forces.
• Primary Functions: Anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search-and-rescue, naval gunfire support, surveillance, logistics, personnel transfer, and vertical replenishment.
• Design Features: The MH-60R is equipped with advanced avionics, active sonar, multi-mode radar, and forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensors, making it ideal for littoral and open-water operations.
• Operational Flexibility: Can operate from frigates, destroyers, cruisers, amphibious ships, and aircraft carriers.
• Performance Specs:
  • Powered by two turboshaft engines (1,425 kW).
  • Maximum speed of 267 km/h and range of 454 km.
• Armament: Torpedoes, air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and crew-served guns.

Self-defense: Integrated with a self-defense system for enhanced security.