The first two MH-60R Seahawk Romeo maritime combat helicopters were
accepted by the Royal Australian Navy at an ‘In Service Date’
ceremony conducted by NUSQN 725 at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida
on the 24th January. The first two of twenty-four airframes on order
from Sikorsky and Lockheed Martin, were delivered to the Defence Materiel
Organisation (DMO) in early December 2013. |
Commanding
Officer of NUSQN 725, Commander David Frost says the Sea Hawk Romeo
represents a big step forward from Navy’s current ‘Classic’
Sea Hawk, which it is replacing.
“The MH-60R is a potent maritime combat helicopter that will primarily
be used in the Anti Submarine Warfare Role. The aircraft will also contribute
to Navy’s anti-surface warfare role by providing an air-to-surface
missile capability,” said Commander Frost.
“Today is a proud day for our Squadron. Not only are we celebrating
a significant milestone for the aircraft, we have a chance to reflect
on how much we have achieved over the past year. During 2013, NUSQN
725 officers and sailors have worked hard to master the skills needed
to fly and maintain the MH-60R.
“Since acceptance of the first two aircraft in December, we have
commenced a graduated flying program, building on the skills, techniques,
and tactics that were taught during operational flying training with
the United States Navy,” said Commander Frost.
“We will continue to consolidate our skills over the next 12 months
prior to returning to Australia to commence operations at Naval Air
Station Nowra, New South Wales, late in 2014.” said Commander
Frost.
The delivery of the first two MH-60R as part of AIR 9000 was achieved
on budget and six months ahead of schedule. The initial aircraft will
be joined by an additional five over the course of 2014. |
