New Zealand to Purchase Five MH-60R Seahawk Maritime Helicopters
New Zealand Ministry of Defence and the US Government Sign Agreement for Five Seahawks, Including Associated Systems and Weapons
October 16, 2026 — The new helicopters will be interoperable with Australia and partner defence forces and provide essential capabilities such as anti-surface and underwater warfare, search and rescue, transportation of personnel and supplies between ship and shore, and support maritime counter-terrorism operations. The MH-60R Seahawk’s speed and range will enhance the offensive and defensive capabilities and extend the surveillance reach of New Zealand’s frigates.
The agreement covers the purchase of helicopters which will be delivered from 2030, as well as spares, weapons and equipment. Funding has also been set aside for future infrastructure design costs and temporary infrastructure to house the aircraft at RNZAF Base Auckland in Whenuapai.
Total investment for the project is $1,648 million capital and $110 million average annual operating funding over the next 10 years.
Future investment decisions relating to this programme of work are expected to include infrastructure, training systems and complementary uncrewed aerial systems.
MH-60R Seahawk technical specifications
Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (a Lockheed Martin company)
Length: 19.76m
Max Speed: 333km/h (180kts)
Range: 963 km (520 nautical miles)
Cargo: In utility mode it can carry 1500+ kg
Crew: 3
Weapon systems: Mk 54 anti-submarine torpedo, AGM-114 Hellfire air-surface missiles, crew-served machine guns; Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS)
Lockheed Martin announced the delivery of the 350th MH-60R Seahawk helicopter to the U.S. Navy on January 13, 2026.
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Defence
