U.S. Approves $2.6 Billion Sale of HH-60W Helicopters to Norway
On 11 July 2025, the U.S. State Department approved a Foreign Military Sale of HH-60W helicopters to Norway. The deal is valued at approximately $2.6 billion, and Norway could acquire up to nine Sikorsky HH-60W “Jolly Green II” combat rescue helicopters and related equipment under the proposed agreement. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of the deal as required. This would be the first export of the HH-60W to date, as the HH-60W variant has so far only served with the U.S. Air Force.
The HH-60W Jolly Green II is a modern variant of the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter built for combat search-and-rescue missions. It features advanced avionics and defensive systems that offer enhanced survivability while recovering personnel in hostile or denied territory, day or night. The Jolly Green II has roughly double the fuel capacity and much greater range compared to older models. The aircraft also includes cutting-edge datalink communications and targeting systems (such as integrated threat-warning receivers) that give crews better situational awareness in complex environments.
Norway’s request covers 22 T700-GE-401 turboshaft engines and multiple onboard systems. The package includes embedded GPS/INS navigation units as well as ten AN/APR-52 radar-warning receivers and ten AN/AAR-57 missile-warning systems. The sale extends beyond hardware to include comprehensive support for spare parts, mission-planning software, training aids, technical manuals, and contractor logistics support to ensure Norway can fully operate and maintain the helicopters.
The sale advances U.S. foreign policy and security goals by strengthening a key NATO ally that is “a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe”. It is intended to “increase Norway’s airborne combat and special operations capabilities” so the country can better defend itself and its NATO partners. Observers note this upgrade is likely aimed at replacing Norway’s aging Bell 412 helicopters flown by special forces. Norway already operates Sikorsky helicopters and is acquiring six MH-60R Seahawks to replace its NH90s, so the HH-60W will complement its fleet. The prime contractor for the HH-60W sale is Sikorsky Aircraft (Lockheed Martin) of Connecticut. DSCA also noted the sale would have no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness and would not require additional American personnel in Norway. Once Congress completes its review, final contract negotiations can begin, and deliveries of the new helicopters and support gear will proceed, modernizing Norway’s rescue and special-operations aviation forces.