Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk
American maritime helicopter procured by New Zealand for Royal New Zealand Navy anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. New Zealand ordered 9 MH-60R Seahawk early 2020s with confirmed decision 2026 and deliveries expected late 2020s. Features advanced sensors including dipping sonar, sonobuoys, radar, torpedoes, Hellfire missiles, operations from ANZAC-class frigates. Replaces legacy SH-2G Super Seasprite providing quantum leap in capability particularly anti-submarine warfare. Critical given Chinese submarine activity in Pacific and New Zealand's vast maritime domain. Enables New Zealand frigates to detect and prosecute submarines at extended range. Close integration with Australian and US MH-60R fleets enhancing interoperability. Represents major New Zealand maritime capability investment recognizing deteriorating regional security.
![Sikorsky Aircraft (Lockheed Martin) logo](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="200" height="60" viewBox="0 0 200 60"><rect width="200" height="60" fill="%23111"/><text x="100" y="38" font-family="Arial" font-weight="bold" font-size="18" fill="%23c8a84b" text-anchor="middle">SIKORSKY</text></svg>)
![Lockheed Martin logo](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="200" height="60" viewBox="0 0 200 60"><rect width="200" height="60" fill="%23111"/><text x="100" y="38" font-family="Arial" font-weight="bold" font-size="13" fill="%23c8a84b" text-anchor="middle">LOCKHEED MARTIN</text></svg>)
- Benchmark ASW helicopter worldwide
- AQS-22 FLASH sonar and 25 sonobuoy dispensers
- Hellfire missiles for surface attack
- Full night/all-weather ASW/ASuW
- Link 16 and JTIDS datalinks
- High unit and operating cost
- Requires carrier or large frigate for full ASW kit
- US ITAR restrictions on export
- GE engine dependency
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