Sikorsky and CAE are collaborating to significantly enhance the anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities of the MH-60R Seahawk helicopters operated by both the United States and Australian navies. This crucial upgrade involves the integration of the Magnetic Anomaly Detection-Extended Role (MAD-XR) systems, promising to bolster their ability to locate and track submerged threats.
The MAD-XR system represents a critical advancement in ASW technology. It functions by precisely detecting subtle disturbances in the Earth’s magnetic field, anomalies that can be indicative of a large metallic object like a submarine beneath the surface. This passive detection method offers a valuable complement to traditional sonar systems, allowing the Seahawks to sweep broader areas and potentially identify submarines that might otherwise evade detection.
The U.S. Navy underscored the importance of this enhancement by awarding CAE a $21 million contract in late 2024 for the production of these advanced MAD-XR kits. Deliveries of the new systems are anticipated to commence by May 2026, with the initial rollout specifically designated for the Australian fleet of MH-60R Seahawks. Subsequently, the upgrades will extend to the U.S. Navy’s own formidable Seahawk fleet.
The MH-60R Seahawk is already a cornerstone of modern naval aviation, serving as a multi-mission workhorse for navies worldwide. Its primary roles include anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, and logistics. The addition of the MAD-XR system will significantly augment its effectiveness in the complex and increasingly critical domain of undersea warfare, particularly as naval powers continue to invest in quieter and more elusive submarine technologies.
This enhancement highlights the ongoing commitment of both the U.S. and Australian navies to maintaining a technological edge in ASW. By integrating cutting-edge detection capabilities, the MH-60R Seahawks will be better equipped to counter the evolving threats posed by underwater adversaries, ensuring the safety of naval fleets and the security of maritime interests across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.