Lockheed expands helicopter reach with latest contract: Where they will be sent

Lockheed Martin has received a $364 million contract to produce six Sikorsky MH-60R SEAHAWK helicopters in Owego.

The helicopters will be produced for the Norwegian Navy, and will be the first SEAHAWK helicopters used in Norway.

The helicopters will join the 330 already operational MH-60R aircraft around the globe within the U.S. Navy, Australia, Denmark, Saudi Arabia, and India. Next year, helicopters will be delivered to Greece and South Korea. This new contract marks the second in a month, with Spain ordering eight helicopters on Oct. 12.

"This platform has a long and proven track record of reliability and flexibility in operationalenvironments similar to those faced by the Norwegian Air Force and Coast Guard," said Brigadier General Jarle Nergård. "This is why we believe the MH-60R is the solution that best meets Norway’s current requirements, and why we are very pleased to see this contract moving forward.”

What it means for Owego: Lockheed Martin awarded $379 million helicopter contract

When MH-60R helicopters will be sent to Norway

The helicopters are expected to be delivered to the Norwegian Navy in 2027.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) praised the contract and the workers at Lockheed Martin's Owego site.

“Lockheed Martin’s dedicated Owego workforce continues to prove they are best in class for thehelicopters that power America’s military and allies around the world," he said. "This well-deserved, $364 million contract will help this engine of Southern Tier manufacturing continue to thrive supporting hundreds of good paying jobs.”

This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Lockheed Martin contract will send helicopters to Norway: What to know