In an official statement released on August 21, the Government of New Zealand confirmed that the Royal New Zealand Navy has selected the MH-60R Seahawk to replace its aging SH-2G(I) Super Seasprite helicopters. The decision falls under the country’s most recent Defence Capability Plan (DCP). The acquisition is expected to require an investment of more than NZ$2 billion, allowing for the purchase of five aircraft produced by Sikorsky, along with their associated weapons package and support systems.
Commenting on the decision, Defence Minister Judith Collins stated: “With the arrival of the new MH-60Rs, New Zealand will gain critical, interoperable, and reliable combat capability. The MH-60R Seahawk is an excellent fit for New Zealand’s needs and supports our goal of a more integrated ANZAC force. In addition, these new aircraft will provide dependable platforms for deploying personnel and responding to international events.”
While the platform has been selected, no formal contract has yet been signed between New Zealand and the United States. However, the government expects to expedite the process following the announcement, aiming to proceed through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Wellington is reportedly prepared to bypass a full open tender in order to secure Cabinet approval by next year, accelerating a process that began in 2023 with the release of the first Requests for Information (RFI).
With regard to this process, it is worth recalling that the RFI sought information across five main areas: the helicopters themselves, unmanned platforms capable of complementing them, long-term logistical support for Navy service, corresponding training systems, and mission support systems. It was also specified that the aircraft should ensure a service life of at least 25 years and the ability to operate from the Navy’s existing frigates. In the final stage, Sikorsky’s candidate competed against and ultimately prevailed over Airbus’s NH90, which had sought to leverage New Zealand’s familiarity with its helicopter fleet introduced from 2005.
The choice also reflects regional interoperability considerations. Since 2014, the Australian Defence Force has operated the MH-60R, currently fielding 23 aircraft. As Minister Collins highlighted: “These five Seahawks will expand the offensive and defensive capability and surveillance reach of the Royal New Zealand Navy’s frigates and ensure we remain interoperable with our ally Australia and other defence partners. We have been very clear: whenever possible, we will buy the same platforms as Australia, unless there is a compelling reason not to.”
Additionally, the government announced a NZ$620 million investment in leasing two Airbus A321XLR aircraft for six years, with a future purchase option. These aircraft will replace the Air Force’s aging Boeing 757-2K2 strategic transports. Like the Seahawk acquisition, this move is one of the first confirmed under the DCP, which foresees more than NZ$12 billion in defence investments across multiple programs.
*Images used for illustrative purposes
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