South Korean Navy to receive first MH-60R Seahawks in December

South Korea is set to receive its first batch of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters from Lockheed Martin Corp. by the end of this year, significantly bolstering its anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The South Korean Navy revealed this on Aug. 7.

211217-N-HH215-1323 INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 17, 2021) An MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the “Blue Hawks” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 78 flies over the Indian Ocean during a bilateral training exercise with the Royal Australian Air Force, Dec. 17, 2021. Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group and elements of the Royal Australian Navy and Air Force are conducting a bilateral training exercise to test and refine warfighting capabilities in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tyler R. Fraser)

In 2020, South Korea approved a $698 million project to purchase 12 Seahawks from Lockheed Martin. The helicopters will enhance the Navy’s detection and attack capabilities against enemy vessels and submarines.

The MH-60R Seahawk boasts superior endurance and range compared to South Korea’s current Lynx and Wildcat helicopters. It can operate for four hours and cover 834 kilometers on a single mission.

The Seahawks are expected to seamlessly integrate with the Navy’s existing P-8A Poseidon aircraft, which are renowned for their anti-submarine warfare capabilities. This combined force will provide South Korea with a robust maritime defense system.

The arrival of the MH-60R Seahawks in December 2024 marks a significant step forward in South Korea’s efforts to modernize its navy and safeguard its territorial waters.

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