Jinhae: The Navy has initiated the deployment of MH-60R Seahawk maritime helicopters, aiming to enhance its detection and attack capabilities against North Korean vessels and submarines. This strategic move marks the first operational deployment of these helicopters by the Navy, underscoring a significant advancement in maritime defense.

According to Yonhap News Agency, a ceremony was held at a naval air command unit in Jinhae, approximately 310 kilometers southeast of Seoul, to commemorate the delivery of the MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. The deployment follows a decision by the state arms procurement agency in 2020, which sanctioned a 960 billion-won (US$637 million) project to procure 12 Seahawks from the U.S. defense firm Lockheed Martin Corp.

Naval Chief of Operations Adm. Kim Kyung-ryul conveyed in a congratulatory message that the Seahawk, equipped with advanced detection and tracking capabilities, will decisively enhance the military's operational effectiveness. He emphasized that the helicopters' swift maneuvering abilities will ensure a comprehensive victory over adversaries.

The MH-60R Seahawk is engineered for multifaceted missions, including anti-submarine and anti-ship warfare, as well as search and rescue operations. It boasts a maximum speed of 333 kph and can sustain flight for up to four hours with an auxiliary fuel tank. The Navy plans to gradually deploy the remaining helicopters, following the initial deployment of two choppers.