The US Navy has advanced its MH-60 Seahawk modernization effort by identifying industry performers for a prototype project.
The US Navy has advanced its MH-60 Seahawk modernization effort by identifying industry performers for a prototype project aimed at keeping the helicopter fleet operationally relevant through 2050.
Sierra Nevada Corporation, Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, Rockwell Collins, and Technology Security Associates have been identified for roles spanning structural integration, flight-critical avionics, digital-backbone development, and open-system verification.
Led by the H-60 Multi-Mission Helicopter Program Office in cooperation with the Royal Australian Navy, Phase 1 will develop preliminary flight-critical avionics and digital-backbone designs and prepare the aircraft for testing. Phase 2 will cover prototype development and verification.
The effort will use digital tools to accelerate development and testing, while Modular Open Systems Approach standards will enable faster integration of new technologies and reduce the need for costly redesigns. The approach could also provide a common architecture for future vertical-lift systems.
Seahawk
The Seahawk traces its origins to the 1970s, when the US Navy sought a replacement for the SH-2 Seasprite and based its requirements on the US Army's UH-60 Black Hawk.
The resulting SH-60B entered service in 1984 and evolved into the current MH-60R and MH-60S variants.
The MH-60R performs anti-submarine, surface, and electronic warfare, as well as command-and-control missions. The MH-60S supports anti-surface warfare, combat search and rescue, special operations, and airborne mine countermeasures.
The government is using an Other Transaction Authority agreement through the Naval Aviation Systems Consortium to engage industry partners. Formal contracts or agreements remain contingent on successful negotiations and finalization of the Phase 1 statements of work.
