US State Department approves $1bn sale of MH-60R Seahawk multirole helicopters to Norway

Norway is one step closer to acquiring the American MH-60R Seahawk multirole helicopter. The potential deal has been approved by the US State Department.

Here's What We Know

Norway wants to buy six helicopters. The deal is worth $1 billion. The contract also includes delivery of additional equipment, including propulsion systems, GPS systems and sonars. Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems will be the prime contractor.

The approved sale of the MH-60R will improve the capabilities of the Norwegian Coast Guard. The Nordic country will use the "enhanced capability" to deter threats in the region and to bolster its own defences. This was announced by the Defence and Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).

The MH-60R is one of many versions of the SH-60 helicopter. It can carry Mk 54 torpedoes and AMG-114 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles. The helicopter is equipped with two General Electric T700-GE-401C engines of 1410 kW each. It has a maximum speed of 270km/h, a practical ceiling of 3.7km and a range of 830km.

Source: DSCA