Multi-Mission Helicopter Upgrade Development

The Multi-Mission Helicopter Upgrade Development program, managed by the Navy, focuses on enhancing the capabilities of the MH-60R and MH-60S helicopters. The primary aim is to improve intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting (ISR&T), antisubmarine warfare, surface warfare, electronic warfare, command and control, and non-combat operations. Secondary missions include amphibious warfare, air warfare, health services, fleet support operations, logistics, and naval special warfare. For the MH-60S variant, emphasis is placed on combat logistics, surface warfare, naval special warfare, combat search and rescue, and airborne mine countermeasures.

The program's objectives involve upgrading sensors, network capabilities, weapon systems, avionics, communications, and navigation systems. It also includes integrating modern precision-guided air-to-ground missiles and enhancing data-fusion capabilities. A significant aspect of the program is addressing diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages by making incremental improvements to airframe safety and mission-planning systems. The development of secure over-the-horizon communications and modern navigation systems is also prioritized.

In FY 2025, the program will focus on several key initiatives such as System Configuration capability increases for fuel management and safety enhancements. This includes advanced offboard electronic warfare systems and modernized tactical networks. Radar hardware and software enhancements are planned to support the Minotaur Family of Systems (MFoS), along with solutions for avionics display obsolescence. The integration of Link 16 Advanced Capabilities aims to improve over-the-horizon targeting capabilities.

Additionally, engineering efforts will continue to provide support for radar technology refreshes and system configuration activities. The program will also advance its cybersecurity posture through evaluations and validations. Developmental activities will include capability studies on open hardware and software architectures to support mid-life upgrades for the MH-60 platform. These efforts are designed to ensure that the helicopters remain capable of meeting evolving threats while maintaining operational readiness.