The first batch of Indian Navy’s aircrew of MH 60R ‘Romeo’ helicopter has successfully completed its training at Naval Air Station, North Island, San Diego, US.

India signed a Government to Government deal worth over 2.4 billion dollars in 2020 with the US for 24 such multi-role advanced helicopters. Lockheed Martin is the manufacturer of these helicopters.The first two helicopters were handed over to the Indian Navy in July last year in the US. 

The contract is under the aegis of Foreign Military Sale(FMS)route wherein the US government stands guarantee for all the clauses of the deal.Giving details of the training, navy officials said here on Friday, the 10-month long course which ended on April one included conversion training and other advanced qualifications on MH 60R helicopter.

The crew flew extensively from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron – 41 (HSM 41) and achieved day and night deck landing qualification onboard a US Navy Destroyer. The crew would be responsible for inducting the versatile ‘Romeo’ into Indian Navy. The MH 60R helicopters will provide the Indian Navy enhanced offensive role including Anti-submarine Warfare, Anti-ship Strike, specialised maritime operations as well as Search and Rescue operations.

These helicopters can be loaded with torpedoes and missiles. In addition to tracking and engaging submarines, the MH-60Rs are also capable of logistics support, personnel transport, medical evacuation and surveillance. The MH-60R deal includes training of Indian naval pilots and ground crew, spare parts and air-to-ground weapons support.

The MH-60s will be modified with sensors, equipment, and specialised weapon systems unique to India, a package that includes Hellfire air-to-surface missiles and Mark 54 anti-submarine torpedoes.

The entire lot of 24 helicopters will start arriving in India in phases this year.  These helicopters will eventually replace Navy’s fleet of ageing British-built Sea King helicopters.