Norway has officially received the go-ahead from the United States for the purchase of nine HH-60W Jolly Green II rescue helicopters, and it costs as much as $2.6 billion. If the deal goes through, Norway will become the first foreign user of these machines. Supplies include not only the helicopters themselves, but also engines, equipment, spare parts, and even training for pilots and technicians.
What is the HH-60W?
This is an upgraded version of the legendary Black Hawk, tailored for rescue operations in combat conditions. The main advantage is the increased flight range. The HH-60W has almost twice as much power as the old HH-60G. This is especially important if you need to pull the crew deep behind the front line or in difficult weather conditions.
By the way, the helicopter has been equipped with large fuel tanks and even an in—flight refueling system for this purpose, so it can operate autonomously for a long time.
As part of the contract, the country will receive:
- 9 HH-60W helicopters
- 22 GE T700 engines (including spare ones)
- Enemy missile and radar detection systems
- Electronic warfare systems
- GAU-21 machine guns
- Software, spare parts and full technical support
The training of pilots and technical staff will take place with the help of American instructors and specialists from Sikorsky, which is the main supplier of this equipment.
These helicopters will replace the outdated Bell 412, which have long failed to meet modern requirements. And the new vehicles will give the Norwegian army a serious breakthrough in terms of mobility, survivability and functionality — all of which is critically important in the current geopolitical environment.
In addition, the HH-60W combines perfectly with the equipment of other NATO countries, which simplifies joint operations and logistics. In other words, Norway is not just updating its fleet, it is becoming part of a more well—coordinated security system.
By the way, the HH-60W is not the only order. Norway has previously agreed to supply six MH-60R Seahawk anti-submarine missiles to replace the decommissioned NH90s. This will also increase standardization and simplify maintenance of equipment.
After signing the contract, training will begin: pilot training, modernization of airfields, creation of repair bases. The first deliveries are expected to be received in the middle of the next decade, and then Norway will significantly strengthen its air force.
Thus, this deal is not just a purchase of equipment, but a strategic step towards strengthening the country's defense capability and its role in NATO.
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