Before Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India next week, India has signed a big agreement with America. India has signed a deal worth Rs 8,000 crore with the US as part of a 5-year “follow on support” i.e. continuous support package for its Navy’s fleet of 24 Seahawk helicopters.
This agreement between India and America has come at a time when there is tension in the relations between the two countries after US President Donald Trump imposed a total tariff of 50 percent on Indian goods in August.
This helicopter is effective for every season
The Defense Ministry said that it has signed Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOAs) worth about Rs 7,995 crore with the US regarding the MH60R helicopter fleet. These helicopters manufactured by Lockheed Martin Corporation are used in all weather conditions.
India had signed an agreement with the US for the purchase of 24, MH60R about 5 years ago in February 2020. The MH60R Seahawk is a maritime variant of the Blackhawk helicopter.
India got the first batch in 2021
According to the Defense Ministry, “Follow on Support” is a comprehensive package that includes a wide range of provisions including spares, accessories, product support, training and technical support and repair of spare parts. The ministry said, “Due to these facilities, there will be long-term capacity build-up in the country and will reduce dependence on the US government, hence it will also fulfill the vision of self-reliant India.”
The ministry also said in its statement, “This agreement will also promote the development of indigenous products and services through MSMEs (Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) and other Indian firms.” Additionally, sustainment support will significantly improve the operational availability and maintainability of the MH60R helicopters, which also have anti-submarine warfare capability. The first 3 MH-60R helicopters were received by India in 2021 itself.
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