Sikorsky and CAE have partnered to enhance the anti-submarine warfare capabilities of the U.S. Navy and Royal Australian Navy’s MH-60R SEAHAWK® helicopters by integrating the advanced CAE Magnetic Anomaly Detection-Extended Role (MAD-XR) system. This state-of-the-art digital sensor will enable these maritime helicopters to detect and track submarines by sensing disruptions in the Earth’s magnetic field caused by underwater metallic objects.
The MAD-XR system, developed by CAE and integrated into the Seahawk’s mission computer by Sikorsky, provides a lightweight and highly sensitive solution to submarine detection. It can function independently or alongside other onboard systems like sonobuoys and long-range dipping sonar.
“This compact, removable device gives MH-60R operators a significant upgrade in detecting undersea threats,” said Tish Rourke, Vice President of Maritime Systems at Sikorsky. “Thanks to recent mission computer upgrades, the MAD-XR can be added to any MH-60R without permanent modifications.”
Weighing under 20 pounds (about 9 kg) including hardware, the MAD-XR system fits inside the tail cone of the helicopter and can be easily moved between aircraft. It alerts the crew via audio when a target is detected and displays critical contact and range data.
France Hébert, Division President of Defense & Security at CAE Canada, emphasized the system’s value, stating, “MAD-XR significantly enhances underwater threat detection and is trusted worldwide for defense applications. We are proud to integrate it with the MH-60R fleet.”
Integration of the MAD-XR system followed two major milestones. First, in early 2024, the U.S. Navy released software and hardware updates enabling MAD-XR compatibility on MH-60R aircraft. Then, in September 2024, Sikorsky secured a $21 million contract to deliver MAD-XR kits: 20 for the Royal Australian Navy, six for the U.S. Navy, and two for evaluation by the U.S. Navy Reserve. Deliveries are scheduled through May 2026, with further kit options available for 2025 and 2026.
Cliff Kyle, General Manager of Sikorsky Australia, praised the Royal Australian Navy for being the first to deploy this capability. “This milestone strengthens the lethality and readiness of Australia’s MH-60R fleet and highlights our team’s commitment to innovation and defense excellence,” he said.
The MAD-XR represents a significant upgrade from the legacy AN/ASQ-81 system, which was heavier (90 lbs), externally mounted, and trailed behind the aircraft on a cable. The new digital system is more efficient, compact, and operationally flexible—bringing a modern edge to undersea warfare.