The United States has approved a proposed $1.5-billion Foreign Military Sale to New Zealand for MH-60R Seahawk helicopters and associated equipment, reinforcing defense ties between the two nations. According to the US State Department, the acquisition will enhance New Zealand’s ability to address current and emerging security challenges while improving protection of critical national infrastructure. The package is expected to strengthen maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, search-and-rescue, and homeland defense capabilities. In a related decision, Washington also approved a separate $69-million sale of MK 54 lightweight torpedoes. Both proposed transactions have been submitted to the US Congress for final review and approval before implementation.
