PORTFOLIO ACQUISITION EXECUTIVE AVIATION, Patuxent River, Md. The Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) has surpassed 10,000 flight hours in their fleet of U.S. Navy MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, a significant achievement highlighting a successful international defense collaboration. The milestone demonstrates the RSNF’s growing operational capability and the strength of its strategic partnership with the U.S. Navy.
Training and skill development were integral to the program's success accumulating more than 4,300 flight hours and 3,200 simulator hours during comprehensive training with U.S. Navy instructors at Naval Station Mayport, Florida.
"This achievement is a testament to the dedication of the Royal Saudi Naval Forces and the power of our combined efforts," said Joshua Deuley, H-60 Multi-Mission Helicopter program (PMA-299) RSNF case manager. "Through meticulous joint training, we have built a robust capability that enhances regional maritime security. We are incredibly proud of what our Saudi partners have accomplished."
The RSNF foreign military sales (FMS) program, which began in July 2015, included the delivery of 10 MH-60R helicopters and extensive training for pilots, sensor operators, and maintenance crews. The first five aircraft were delivered to Jubail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in February 2020, with the final five arriving in December 2022. Since then, the RSNF has flown more than 5,600 operational hours in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, conducting missions and contributing to maritime operations.
“From the initial FMS case signing to the completion of 10,000 flight hours in June 2026, the program has successfully equipped RSNF with advanced capabilities and trained personnel to enhance its operational readiness,” Deuley said.
RSNF is the second FMS partner to reach the 10,000 flight-hour milestone in the MH-60R, underscoring the effectiveness of the training and support framework established between the two navies, strengthening defense capabilities.
The MH-60R Seahawk is the U.S. Navy's primary anti-submarine and surface warfare helicopter specially designed for all aspects of land or maritime operations from any aviation ship or air-capable vessel.