With the successful completion of flight tests for three MH-60R helicopters, Greece gears up to enhance its naval aerial capabilities.
The Hellenic Navy is poised to welcome three MH-60R SEAHAWK helicopters. A Lockheed Martin company, Sikorsky, recently concluded flight tests of the integrated mission systems and sensors aboard the helicopters, affirming their efficiency and effectiveness in performing anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions.
Sikorsky president Paul Lemmo highlighted the commonality of these helicopters with existing global fleets, “Commonality of these Hellenic Navy MH-60R SEAHAWK aircraft with 330 MH-60R and 250 MH-60S SEAHAWK aircraft, and with the global BLACK HAWK helicopter fleet, enables Sikorsky and the US Navy to continue sustaining and upgrading this proven weapon system for maximum threat deterrence and operational capability.”
The arrival of these helicopters in Greece signals a transformative phase in the country’s maritime defence strategy. Scheduled to arrive in 2024 via US Navy transport planes, the MH-60R aircraft will bolster the Hellenic Navy’s fleet, further consolidating its position as a maritime force in the region.
The Hellenic Navy MH-60R helicopters will be stationed at the Kotroni Naval Air Station alongside existing S-70B SEAHAWK aircraft, aptly named Aegean Hawks. This deployment shows Greece’s commitment to modernising its naval capabilities, ensuring heightened security and vigilance in the Aegean Sea and beyond.
According to GlobalData’s “Greece Defense Market 2023-2028” report, the Hellenic Navy has eight of the S-70B6 and three of the S-70B. All 11 aircraft were bought between 1995 and 1997, proving the requirement for a modernised maritime helicopter.
As geopolitical dynamics evolve, Greece’s investment in maritime technology shows its proactive stance in safeguarding maritime interests and ensuring regional stability. Acquiring MH-60R helicopters enhances Greece’s defence capabilities and fosters international collaboration and interoperability in maritime security efforts.
Several countries have been bolstering their maritime capabilities in recent developments by acquiring the MH-60R. Spain secured a contract with Lockheed Martin for eight MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, and Norway is set to acquire six MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.
Lockheed Martin secured a contract to supply 12 additional MH-60R Seahawk helicopters to the Royal Australian Navy. Finally, the Indian Navy formally received the first batch of two MH-60R multi-role helicopters from the US Navy as part of a broader procurement of 24 helicopters.
