Romeo in the running

The Lockheed Martin/ Sikorsky MH-60R ‘Romeo’ is possibly the front runner for the Navy’s Future Naval Aviation Combat system project, which looks to be nearing a critical stage.

The MH-60R is one of two contenders for the Air 9000 Phase 8 requirement for 24 helicopters to replace the RAN’s existing 16 S‑70B Seahawks and the 11 cancelled Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprites, along with the European NFH90. The program appears to be nearing a decision point, with first pass approval expected by the end of 2009 or in early 2010.