Joe Biden approved a crucial sale of defence equipment to India. He notified the Congress about the decision.
Biden Administration’s Game-Changing Defence Deal With India
Mere weeks before the completion of his Presidential term, outgoing president Biden Administration’s Game-Changing Defence Deal With India The US has authorised the sale of MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopter Equipment and related ones at the cost of USD 1.17 billion.
This will enhance India’s submarine warfare capabilities by deterring present and future threats the Defense Security Cooperation Agency told the Congress. As per the contractors, the helicopter brings transformational anti-submarine (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capabilities to navies around the world. Originally designed specifically for the US Navy, the aircraft is described as “rugged, powerful, and reliable”.
Here are some key features of the MH-60R Helicopters:
•Advanced digital sensors include the multi-mode radar, electronic support measures system, electro-optical/infrared camera, datalinks, aircraft survivability systems, dipping sonar and sonobuoys.
•The fully-integrated mission system processes sensor data to build a complete situational picture of the ocean surface and subsea domain.
•With actionable knowledge, the crew can track, target and engage ships or submarines effectively and efficiently.
•Weapons include torpedoes, air-to-ground missiles and rockets, and crew served guns.
•Range: 704 km
•Engine type: General Electric T700
•Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft
•Length: 20 m
•First flight: 12 December 1979
•Number of seats: 11
According to sources, the upgrade is part of a broader strategy to counter China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean and Pakistan’s continued support for regional instability. The deal also underscores the growing defence partnership between India and the US, marking a milestone in their shared vision for a free and secure Indo-Pacific region.
