The Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP: Local Defence industry marks maintenance milestone

The Australian defence industry marked the first-ever deep-level maintenance completion of a United States Navy MH-60R Seahawk ‘Romeo’ helicopter in Nowra, NSW today.

In October 2022, the helicopter arrived in Australia and will soon return to the United States after successful maintenance and repairs by defence industry partner Sikorsky Australia.

More than 200 personnel in Nowra support the world-class Australian capability, delivering maintenance, logistics, warehousing and technical support for the Royal Australian Navy MH-60R.

This achievement highlights a 100-year partnership between Australia and the United States.

Efforts continue to strengthen supply chain resilience in the region with Australia pursuing options to expand maintenance, repair, overhaul, and upgrade of manufacture capabilities.

The Royal Australian Navy fleet of MH-60R helicopters is expanding to a total of 36 aircraft from mid-2025 through Project SEA9100.

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Defence, Matt Thistlethwaite:

“Australians performing a deep level maintenance on a Romeo helicopter signifies the trust and confidence of the United States Navy in our local industry, and the skill and competence of our tradespeople and technicians.”

“Sikorsky Australia and its employees should rightly be proud of this achievement. It is no small feat to keep the most advanced maritime helicopter in the world fighting fit.”

“Our local defence industry partners continue to achieve excellent outcomes. With the support provided for the Romeo helicopter, we can now add this significant milestone to its list of achievements.”