WASHINGTON, — June 06, 2026 : The U.S. Department of State has approved a potential $1.5 billion Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to New Zealand for five MH-60R Seahawk multi-mission maritime helicopters and related equipment as part of the country's ongoing defense modernization program.
In a separate approval, the State Department also cleared the potential sale of 20 MK 54 lightweight torpedoes worth approximately $69 million, strengthening New Zealand's anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
The proposed sale has been notified to the U.S. Congress for final review and approval.
Replacing the SH-2G(I) Seasprite Fleet
The MH-60R Seahawk helicopters will replace the Royal New Zealand Navy's SH-2G(I) Seasprite fleet. New Zealand selected the MH-60R as its preferred replacement in August 2025, allocating approximately NZ$2 billion ($1.2 billion) for the program.
The package includes the helicopters, mission systems, spare parts, training, maintenance support, and logistics assistance required for operational service.
Maritime Warfare Capabilities
The MH-60R Seahawk is the primary shipborne helicopter operated by the U.S. Navy and is designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and maritime security missions.
The aircraft is equipped with advanced sensors, radar systems, electronic warfare equipment, and modern avionics for detecting and tracking surface and underwater threats.
As part of the package, New Zealand will receive 20 MK 54 lightweight torpedoes, which can be deployed from the MH-60R during anti-submarine operations.
The helicopter can also carry AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, machine guns, and the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS). It has a maximum speed of 333 km/h (180 knots), a range of approximately 963 km (520 nautical miles), and a crew of three.
Strengthening Allied Interoperability
The U.S. State Department said the sale will enhance New Zealand's ability to address current and future security challenges, strengthen homeland defense, and protect critical infrastructure.
Because the MH-60R is already operated by the U.S. Navy and the Royal Australian Navy, the acquisition will improve interoperability during joint exercises and multinational operations across the Indo-Pacific region.
The helicopters will operate from New Zealand's frigates and patrol vessels, expanding maritime surveillance and anti-submarine capabilities.
Part of a Wider Defense Modernization Plan
The acquisition is a key element of New Zealand's largest defense modernization program in decades.
Under its 2025 Defence Capability Plan, the government committed an additional NZ$9 billion ($5 billion) in defense spending over four years and aims to increase military expenditure to nearly 2% of GDP within eight years.
The government has already allocated NZ$1.58 billion ($916 million) in new defense funding to begin upgrading military equipment and infrastructure.
The MH-60R purchase represents one of New Zealand's most significant defense procurements in recent years and will form the backbone of the country's future naval aviation capability.
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