The Australian Department of Defence has announced a significant contract with Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky to ensure the ongoing maintenance of the Royal Australian Navy’s MH-60R Seahawk multi-mission maritime helicopters. This contract is valued at 313.5 million Australian dollars, equivalent to approximately 194.8 million US dollars, and encompasses a range of critical services including repair, overhaul, and upgrades designed to maintain the fleet’s operational readiness throughout its service life.
Sikorsky will execute these maintenance tasks at its facility located in Nowra, New South Wales, over the next three years. Cliff Kyle, General Manager of Sikorsky Australia, expressed pride in the partnership with the Royal Australian Navy. He acknowledged that the contract reflects recognition for the essential services provided to ensure the Seahawk fleet remains operationally effective in various theatres.
Currently, the Royal Australian Navy operates 23 MH-60R Seahawks, with plans to add 13 more helicopters by the end of 2026, following a foreign military sale announced in 2022. This expansion will bolster the navy’s maritime capabilities.
In terms of local economic impact, the sustainment of the Seahawk fleet is set to create 75 new job opportunities, as well as 20 apprenticeships, while supporting 200 existing roles in the Nowra area.
Australian Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Minister Pat Conroy hailed the contract as a “critical milestone” in enhancing the readiness and resilience of Australia’s defence capabilities. He emphasized the importance of local expertise and industry partnerships in underpinning national security.
The MH-60R Seahawk itself is a highly capable helicopter designed for a variety of missions. It has a length of 64 feet (20 meters), a rotor diameter of 54 feet (16 meters), and a substantial payload capacity of approximately 6,000 pounds (2,721 kilograms). The aircraft is armed with advanced weaponry, including lightweight torpedoes, guided bombs, and air-to-surface missiles, allowing it to engage in anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, as well as support naval special operations. Additionally, the MH-60R is equipped to undertake vital search and rescue and medical evacuation missions.
Powered by two General Electric T700-GE-401 engines, each generating around 1,900 horsepower, the MH-60R can reach speeds of up to 180 knots (207 miles per hour or 333 kilometers per hour) and has an operational range of 470 nautical miles (541 miles or 870 kilometers), operating effectively at altitudes exceeding 11,000 feet (3,353 meters).
Overall, this contract not only underscores the ongoing commitment to maintain and enhance the capabilities of Australia’s naval aviation but also highlights the cooperative efforts between government and industry to support national defense priorities while fostering local job creation.
