US approves almost $1 billion helicopter sale to Spain
The US State Department approved an FMS to Spain for eight MH-60R helicopters and associated equipment and weaponry for $950 million on 16 March.
The principal contractor for the deal will be Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, Owego, NY.
The MH-60Rs will primarily provide the capability to perform anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare missions, while secondary missions include vertical replenishment, SAR and communications relay.
In terms of weaponry, the deal lists hellfire missile launchers, GAU-21 crew-served guns, LAU-61 rocket launchers, APKWS II capabilities and associated ammunition.
The aircraft will come readily equipped with a range of non-lethal equipment such as radio terminals, IFF transponders, radars and more.
The contract includes follow-on services such as repairs, parts, personnel training and engineering and logistical support.
As indicated in the announcement, the helicopters will be delivered to the Spanish Navy and support its ability to remain interoperable with US and NATO allies.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, Spain currently operates 14 SH-60Bs, from which the MH-60R is derived.
More from Naval Warfare
-
Kongsberg contracted for Dutch and Belgian frigate propellers and drive shafts
In July 2023, Damen and Thales signed contracts to design, build and deliver four new anti-submarine warfare (ASW) frigates for Belgium and the Netherlands.
-
Leonardo fires up small calibre naval gun development as Italy nears first Lionfish X-Gun handover
Alongside progress on its Lionfish contracts, Leonardo emphasised its shift in focus from traditional larger calibre systems toward smaller calibre solutions, epitomised by the X-Gun’s inception in 2017.
-
SEA to trial sonar software for UK Royal Navy
The UK Royal Navy’s anti-submarine warfare Spearhead programme, run by the service’s Develop Directorate, has been investigating future and existing technologies with a particular focus on the USV arena.
-
Australia’s new frigate options: No easy choices as pressure mounts on DoD
A new class of General Purpose ‘Tier 2’ frigate will replace the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN’s) Anzac-class frigates, but the selected design options appear to have major issues in terms of compatibility and availability for the future fleet.
-
Royal Navy welcomes mine-hunting mothership
RFA Stirling Castle, a 6,000-tonne vessel, will start operations later this year.
-
Norway’s aim to purchase new frigates may impact Royal Navy’s own fleet production
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has only so far confirmed that discussions have been taking place with BAE Systems, but a decision has yet to be made, according to The Telegraph.