Aviation News – The United States has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to New Zealand for five MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopters and associated equipment in a deal valued at approximately $1.5 billion. The proposed acquisition is intended to strengthen New Zealand’s maritime defense, surveillance, and search-and-rescue capabilities while enhancing interoperability with allied forces.
The approval was announced by the U.S. Department of State, which determined that the sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives. The Government of New Zealand requested the purchase of five MH-60R helicopters along with mission systems, support equipment, training, spare parts, and logistics services. The helicopters are expected to replace and modernize existing capabilities while supporting New Zealand’s long-term defense modernization plans.
The MH-60R Seahawk is a versatile naval helicopter designed for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and utility missions. Equipped with advanced sensors, radar systems, and communications technology, the aircraft enables operators to detect, track, and respond to threats across large maritime areas. The addition of the helicopters would improve operational readiness and expand New Zealand’s ability to conduct regional and international missions.