SOURCE: AFI
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has announced that the United States has approved the possible sale of three types of sonobuoys to India for its fleet of Sikorsky MH-60R multi-role helicopters.
The potential package, valued at $52.8 million, includes AN/SSQ-53G High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare (HAASW) sonobuoys, AN/SSQ-62F HAASW sonobuoys, and AN/SSQ-36 sonobuoys. The primary contractors for the sale are Sparton Corporation and Undersea Sensor Systems.
According to the DSCA, “The proposed sale will improve India’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing its capacity to conduct anti-submarine warfare operations from its MH-60R helicopters.” The agency also noted that India will have no difficulty integrating this equipment into its armed forces.
The Indian Navy commissioned the MH-60R into service in March. In addition to anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations, the helicopters are capable of performing anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and vertical replenishment missions.
In 2020, New Delhi signed a letter of offer and acceptance (LOA) for 24 MH-60Rs, which are being acquired through the US government’s Foreign Military Sales process. The Indian Navy has stated that the acquisition is valued in excess of INR 140 billion ($1.7 billion), with all rotorcraft expected to be delivered by 2025.
The sale of sonobuoys to India further strengthens the defense partnership between the two countries and underscores the United States’ commitment to supporting India’s maritime security needs.