Pentagon says, P-8 Poseidon and MH-60R helicopters will strengthen the defense capability of Indian and U.S Navy

Indian Navy will be receiving 24 MH-60R multi-mission helicopters and 10th P-8 Poseidon maritime from the U.S Navy.  The 24 MH-60R multi-role helicopters have been manufactured by the Lockheed Martin at an estimated cost of $2.4 billion.

A formal event was organized at Naval Air Station North Island to mark the transfer of the MH-60R multi-mission helicopters and the 10th P-8 Poseidon maritime aircraft from the U.S to India.The DOD congratulated the partners in Indian Navy who received the 24 MH-60R Seahawk maritime helicopters and P-8 Poseidon aircraft.

India is the first nation to operate the P-8 Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft in the Indo-Pacific region. This will enhance the maritime security and promote cooperation & interoperability between Indian and U.S Navy.The maritime MH-60R helicopter is used for carrying out multiple missions from the aircraft. The helicopters can also be equipped with several combat equipment and weapons. The first Indian batch that will be operating the MH-60R helicopters is undergoing training in the U.S.

William Blair, Vice President and CEO of Lockheed Martin India said the MH-60R helicopters are the most advanced helicopters that have showed highest performance so far. Blair praised the selection of Team Seahawk by the Indian Navy.Blair said the new addition to the Indian Navy marks enhanced collaboration between Sikorsky, Indian Navy, and US Navy. The Indian Navy has cleared the purchase procedures of the MH-60R helicopters.