India set to get submarine killer helicopters; check out MH-60 Romeo Seahawk war machine

Indian Navy will soon have a  fleet of 24 MH-60 Romeo Seahawks at $2.4 billion. This chopper is a package of lethal capabilities which is the need of the hour, given the aggressive behaviour of China in the Indian Ocean region. 

Moreover, the induction of the MH-60 Romeo Seahawks was necessary as they will replace the aging fleet of  British-made Sea King helicopters.

MH-60 Romeo Seahawks Specifications

1. The MH-60 Romeo Seahawks helicopter has a length of 19.6 meters and stands at an height of 3.9 to 5.1 meters. It weighs between 9,450-10,350 kg.

2. The chopper has the maximum airspeed of 333.36 km per hour. Furthermore, it has a range about 600 km, which becomes unlimited with air refueling capability.

3. The Seahawk has the capacity to carry three to four crew members. 

MH-60 Romeo Seahawks Features

1. Anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, surveillance, communications, relay, combat search and rescue, naval gunfire support and logistics support.

2. Most capable naval helicopter available today designed to operate from frigates, destroyers, cruisers and aircraft carriers.

Road to the deal

1. August 2018

Ahead of the inaugural India-US 2+2 dialogue, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) accorded the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement.

2. November 2018

The Government has issued the Letter of Request (LoR) for procurement of 24 MRH from the US Government under the Foreign Military sales (FMS) rule.

3. April 2019

US has approved the sale of 24 multi role MH-60 Romeo Seahawks helicopters to India at an estimated cost of $ 2.4 billion.

Up Ahead

1. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency submitted its certification notifying Congress of the possible sale, kicking off a 30-day notification period.

2. US Congress is not required to approve or disapprove the potential sale. If it simply takes no action for the 30-day period, the sale moves forward.