Babcock wins ten-year Queen Elizabeth-class dry dock contract
The first activity in a dry-dock contract for the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers is scheduled for 2023.
US approves almost $1 billion helicopter sale to Spain
Spain is set to enlarge its helicopter fleet with a new acquisition of US MH-60Rs. (Photo: US Navy)
Spain looks to move on from the SH-60B with a new potential purchase of US MH-60Rs for $950 million.
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
-
![Babcock wins ten-year Queen Elizabeth-class dry dock contract]()
-
![Reina Isabel returns to port after partial failure to complete Ukraine delivery]()
Reina Isabel returns to port after partial failure to complete Ukraine delivery
The Spanish Navy support vessel Reina Isabel returned to its homeport on 13 May after a mission to deliver arms, ammunition and Ukraine — although Kyiv did not receive everything it expected.
-
![RN explores autonomous vehicles under attack submarine replacement plans]()
RN explores autonomous vehicles under attack submarine replacement plans
Work on the future SSN(R), the replacement for the Astute-class submarines, continues to progress as planned.
-
![Indo-Pacific 2022: Rise of the maritime machines in Australia]()
Indo-Pacific 2022: Rise of the maritime machines in Australia
Although lagging behind the utilisation of UAVs, militaries are now exploring new applications for and types of UUVs and USVs. Australia is no exception.
-
![Indo-Pacific 2022: Australia is set to trigger MCM tender]()
Indo-Pacific 2022: Australia is set to trigger MCM tender
Three industry contenders have emerged for the Australian navy's quest for a new unmanned MCM system.
-
![Indo-Pacific 2022: Raytheon Anschütz climbs aboard Hunter programme]()
Indo-Pacific 2022: Raytheon Anschütz climbs aboard Hunter programme
Under contract from BAE Systems Australia, Raytheon Anschütz will initially deliver design engineering and requirements verification for installation of its WINBS navigation and bridge technology aboard the RAN’s future Hunter-class frigates.
