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U.S. approves $1.17-bn deal for equipment for MH-60R helicopters

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U.S. approves $1.17-bn deal for equipment for MH-60R helicopters

  • The United States has approved a possible $1.17 billion deal to sell India support equipment for MH-60R multi-role helicopters under its Foreign Military Sales programme.

Highlights:

  • The United States has authorized a potential $1.17 billion deal under its Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program to provide India with support equipment for its fleet of MH-60R Seahawk multi-role helicopters. This move follows India’s induction of nine out of 24 helicopters purchased under a $2.2 billion agreement signed with Lockheed Martin in February 2020.

Enhancing Anti-Submarine Warfare Capabilities:

  • The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of the sale, which includes 30 Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS-JTRS). The DSCA stated that the deal would significantly bolster India's anti-submarine warfare capabilities, enhancing its ability to counter current and future threats.
  • The sale package includes advanced systems like:
    • Forward-looking infrared systems
    • External fuel tanks
    • Advanced data transfer systems
    • Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) equipment
    • Software development and mission planning systems
  • Additionally, it encompasses spare parts, training equipment, logistics support, and repair capabilities.

Strategic Implications:

  • This deal aligns with India’s efforts to modernize its naval fleet, particularly in the context of growing regional security concerns. The MH-60R helicopters, known for their versatility, are designed for missions such as anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and anti-surface warfare.

Contractor and Implementation:

  • Lockheed Martin will be the primary contractor, with offset agreements to be finalized during subsequent negotiations. Implementation of the sale may involve up to 20 U.S. government personnel and 25 contractor representatives providing technical and logistical support in India.

Strengthening U.S.-India Defense Ties:

  • The deal underscores deepening defense collaboration between the two nations, particularly in maritime security. By upgrading its naval capabilities, India continues to reinforce its position as a significant player in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Prelims Takeaways

  • Foreign Military Sales programme.
  • U.S. Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA)

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