Indian Navy is set to receive three of 24 MH-60 Romeo multirole helicopters from United States (US) in July 2021.
Background
India and US had signed a deal worth $2.4 billion in February 2020 to procure 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters from Lockheed Martin.
Highlights
First batch of Indian pilots has reached US for training on helicopters. Pilots would undergo training first in Pensacola in Florida and then in San Diego in California.
About MH-60 Romeo
MH-60 Romeo helicopters have been designed to operate from aircraft carriers, cruisers, frigates and destroyers. It would be equipped with multi-mode radars and night vision devices. They would be armed with Hellfire missiles, precision-guided weaponry and torpedoes. These helicopters are built to target ships, submarines and conduct search & rescue operations at sea. It will replace Sea Kings.
ALH MK- III
Apart from Romeo, Indian Navy also inducted three indigenously-built advanced light helicopters called ALH MK-III. These helicopters will be used to ensure coastal security and maritime reconnaissance. Helicopters were made by Centre-run Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and are equipped with electro-optical equipment & modern surveillance radar. Thus, they offer long range search and rescue. They are also armed with a heavy machine gun.