The Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) announced on Thursday that the state-of-the-art MH-60R Seahawk maritime operations helicopter, designed to detect and attack North Korean submarines and surface ships from long distances, completed its first flight in South Korea and is now bearing the Taegeuk emblem.
In December 2020, the South Korean government signed a Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contract with the U.S. government to acquire 12 MH-60R helicopters. These helicopters are currently being produced and delivered in phases.
The newly introduced MH-60R was first received by South Korea in December 2024 in the United States and transported by sea to Pyeongtaek Port on February 25. After its arrival, the helicopter underwent inspection and flight checks at the ROKN’s 2nd Fleet Command. In March, it conducted its first flight under the 62nd Maritime Air Squadron of the Naval Air Command.
Acquired in coordination with South Korea’s warship construction projects, the MH-60R is deployed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), surveillance and reconnaissance, and search-and-rescue missions. With additional fuel tanks, it can conduct missions for over four hours.
Equipped with advanced maritime radar, digital electro-optical (EO)/infrared (IR) sensors, and electronic warfare (ESM) systems, the MH-60R is capable of high-performance surveillance and reconnaissance. It also features a variable-depth sonar (dipping sonar) and sonobuoys, allowing it to detect, identify, and track submarine signals across vast ocean areas for ASW operations.
The MH-60R is armed with Hellfire anti-ship missiles, capable of precision strikes against North Korean surface vessels, including hovercraft. It also carries Mk-54 lightweight torpedoes for underwater engagements and is being integrated with the domestically produced Blue Shark lightweight torpedo, allowing for simultaneous operation of both systems. Additionally, the helicopter can be fitted with 12.7mm and 7.62mm machine guns to neutralize small targets.
With the introduction of the MH-60R, the ROKN will significantly enhance its aerial ASW capabilities against North Korean submarine threats. It will also improve long-range surveillance, reconnaissance, and rapid response in operational areas, strengthening South Korea’s maritime aviation operations.
Following this initial delivery, the MH-60R will continue to be introduced in phases according to the production schedule. After a year-long integration process, it will be operationally deployed in the first half of 2026.
Rear Admiral Ha Sung Wook, the ROKN Naval Air Command commander, stated that the MH-60R will serve as a new strategic asset for the South Korean Navy, alongside the recently introduced P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. This will reinforce the nation’s vision of a “Strong Navy, maritime power.”