New Delhi, November 28: The Ministry of Defence has signed Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOAs) worth approximately ₹7,995 crore with the Government of the United States to ensure five years of continuous sustainment support for the Indian Navy’s MH-60R multi-role helicopter fleet. The agreements were signed in New Delhi under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
According to the ministry, the sustainment package includes spares, accessories, product support, training, technical assistance, repair and replenishment of components, and the establishment of ‘intermediate-level’ repair and maintenance facilities within India. The creation of these facilities, highlighted in the image on page 2 of the press release, is expected to significantly strengthen India’s self-reliance in helicopter maintenance and reduce dependence on U.S. support over time.
The indigenous facilities will enable long-term capability development, boost participation of Indian MSMEs, and promote locally produced products and services aligned with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Boost to Operational Readiness
The agreement will enhance the operational availability of the advanced, all-weather MH-60R helicopters, which are equipped with anti-submarine warfare capabilities acquired from the U.S. government. This sustained support will allow the aircraft to operate effectively from multiple bases as well as frontline naval ships, ensuring optimal performance during primary and secondary missions.
The MH-60R fleet forms a key pillar of the Indian Navy’s modernisation plans, providing critical capabilities in maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and multi-mission operations.
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