MH-60R Seahawk livré en Inde, 2 autres en route: tout sur l'hélicoptère as central des liens de défense américains

An MH-60R Seahawk naval helicopter has arrived in India, marking a key milestone in the country’s ongoing acquisition program and deepening its defense relationship with the United States. The delivery took place in Kochi, Kerala, with two additional units expected to reach the Indian Navy within days. The U.S. ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, described the arrival as a positive development for the bilateral defense partnership, emphasizing the helicopter’s role in enhancing maritime security across the Indo-Pacific region. The latest delivery follows the formal induction of the MH-60R Seahawk into the Indian Navy in March 2024 at INS Garuda, Kochi. At that time, the Indian Navy received its first squadron of these advanced helicopters, which were procured under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program in 2020. The initial batch of 24 helicopters was intended to modernize the navy’s aerial capabilities, replacing older models and improving overall combat effectiveness. A separate sustainment agreement worth approximately USD 946 million was signed in December 2025 to ensure long-term maintenance and operational readiness of the MH-60R fleet. This contract, approved by India’s Ministry of Defence, aims to provide robust logistical support and increase the availability of these helicopters for critical missions. The agreement also underscores the importance of interoperability between Indian and U.S. military forces, particularly in the context of regional security challenges. The MH-60R Seahawk has already demonstrated its capabilities during real-world operations. In late 2025, after the commissioning of the second squadron, then Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi confirmed that the helicopters had participated in Operation Sindoor. According to official statements, the MH-60R performed effectively in the operation, fulfilling its designated roles and proving its reliability in complex maritime environments. Designed by Lockheed Martin, the MH-60R is a versatile multi-role helicopter capable of conducting a variety of naval tasks. It is equipped with advanced systems such as dipping sonar, sonobuoys, multi-mode radar, and Mk-54 lightweight torpedoes for anti-submarine warfare. For surface warfare, it can deploy AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, lightweight torpedoes, and machine guns, supported by sophisticated radar and electro-optical targeting systems. These features allow the helicopter to conduct surveillance, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and combat operations from ships including aircraft carriers, destroyers, and frigates. The introduction of the MH-60R has significantly bolstered the Indian Navy’s ability to monitor strategic sea lanes, detect submarines, and respond swiftly to maritime threats in the Indian Ocean region. Its deployment aligns with broader strategic goals of enhancing regional stability and countering emerging security concerns in the area. The U.S. Embassy in India highlighted the significance of the recent deliveries, noting the continued collaboration between the two nations in defense matters. Ambassador Gor expressed enthusiasm over the progress made so far, stating that the helicopters will contribute meaningfully to maritime security and the shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The embassy emphasized that the delivery of these helicopters reflects the growing trust and cooperation between India and the United States in addressing common security interests. As the final two MH-60R helicopters prepare for delivery, the focus shifts to their integration into active service. The Indian Navy is expected to continue training personnel and refining operational procedures to maximize the potential of this new asset. With the sustainment agreement in place, the long-term viability of the fleet appears secure, allowing for sustained contributions to both national and regional security objectives.