Australia’s Versatile MH-60R Helos: A New Era in Defense Capabilities
The State Department has reached a conclusion endorsing a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia for MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopters, Associated Defense Services, and related apparatus for an estimated total of $985 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has provided the necessary certification informing Congress of this prospective sale today.
The Government of Australia has expressed interest in acquiring twelve (12) MH-60R Multi-Mission helicopters; thirty (30) T-700-GE-401C engines (24 fitted, 6 spare); twelve (12) APS-153(V) Multi-Mode Radars (fitted); twelve (12) AN/AAS-44C(V) Multi-Spectral Targeting Systems (fitted); thirty-four (34) Embedded Global Positioning System/Precise Positioning Service (GPS/PPS)/Inertial Navigation Systems (EGI) including Selective Availability/Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) (24 fitted, 10 spare); twenty (20) Link 16 Multifunctional Information Distribution Systems (MIDS) – Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) (12 fitted, 8 spare); twelve (12) GAU-61 Digital Rocket Launchers (aircraft ready); twelve (12) Airborne Low Frequency Sonars (ALFS) (aircraft ready); eighteen (18) AN/AAR-47 Missile Warning Systems (12 fitted, 6 spare); eighteen (18) AN/ALE-47 Chaff and Flare Dispensers, Electronic Countermeasures (12 fitted, 6 spare); twelve (12) AN/ALQ-210 Electronic Support Measures (ESM) Systems (fitted); twenty-four (24) M299 Missile Launchers; twelve (12) GAU-21 Crew Served Guns aircraft provisions (fitted, includes aircraft adapter, ammunition bin, and various accessories); twelve (12) M240D Crew Served Gun Cradles (fitted); and eighteen (18) AN/ARQ-59 Hawklink Radio Terminals (12 fitted, 6 spare). Additionally, this includes AN/ARC-210 RT-2036 UHF/VHF radios with Communications Security (COMSEC); AN/APX-123 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) transponders; KIV-78; KIV-6; KOV-21; KGV-135A; Advanced Data Transfer Systems (ADTS); Airborne Low Frequency Sonars (ALFS) Training Simulators/Operational Machine Interface Assistants (ATS OMIA); spare engine containers; trade studies with industry to assess the feasibility and expense of incorporating additional passenger seating and modifications to enhance crew survival; defense services; spare and repair components; support and testing apparatus; communication tools; ferry assistance; publications and technical literature; personnel training and instructional equipment; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistical support services; obsolescence engineering, integration, and testing activities necessary to ensure preparedness for the production of the Australian MH-60R helicopters; and other associated elements of programmatic, technical, and logistical support. The overall estimated value stands at $985 million.
This proposed sale will bolster the foreign policy and national security goals of the United States. Australia is among our key allies in the Western Pacific. The strategic positioning of this political and economic power greatly contributes to the preservation of peace and economic stability within the region. It is crucial to U.S. national interests to assist our ally in fostering and maintaining a robust and prepared self-defense capability.
This proposed sale will enhance Australia’s effectiveness in conducting anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare operations, along with the capability to execute additional missions such as vertical replenishment, search and rescue, and communications relay. Australia intends to utilize this improved capability as a deterrent against regional threats and to fortify its homeland defense. Australia will seamlessly integrate this equipment into its military forces.
The proposed transfer of this equipment will not disrupt the fundamental military equilibrium in the region.
The principal U.S. contractor will be Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, Owego, NY. No known offset agreements have been proposed concerning this potential sale.
Execution of the proposed sale will necessitate U.S. Government and contractor personnel to temporarily visit Australia for program technical oversight and support obligations, including program and technical evaluations.
There will be no negative impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
This notification of a potential sale is mandated by law. The description and financial assessment is for the highest anticipated quantity and monetary value based on initial requisites. The actual monetary value will likely be lower depending on final needs, budget authority, and signed sale agreements, once finalized.
