Indian Navy takes delivery of two MH-60 Romeo helicopters

The Indian Navy has taken delivery of two MH-60 Romeo multi-role helicopters.

As informed, the delivery took place on 28 July at Cochin International Airport. The third helicopter is expected to be delivered this August.

Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LoA) for procurement of 24 MH 60R multi-role helicopters was concluded with the US Government in February 2020. The value of the contract is estimated at $2.6 billion.

The delivery of all 24 MH 60R helicopters is to be completed by 2025. The induction of these mission-capable platforms will significantly boost the integral ASW capability of the Indian Navy, according to navy officials.

Anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare are the MH-60R’s primary missions.

Secondary missions include search and rescue, vertical replenishment, naval surface fire support, logistics support, personnel transport, and medical evacuation.

In May this year, Australia announced its intention to buy 12 MH-60R helicopters. This investment is worth more than $2.5 billion and will replace the navy’s existing Taipan fleet. The government has also set aside up to $360 million to expand facilities at HMAS Albatross to house the expanded fleet.