The U.S. Navy has announced the Commonwealth of Australia has selected the MH-60R SEAHAWK helicopter to fulfill the Australian Defence Force's AIR 9000 Phase 8 requirement for a fleet of 24 new-generation, multi-role naval combat aircraft.

The Commonwealth will acquire the helicopters with associated training and logistical support via the U.S. Government's Foreign Military Sales program.

"The companies that comprise Team Romeo are honored by the Commonwealth's choice of the MH-60R Romeo helicopter to protect Australia's maritime interests," said Mick Maurer, president of Sikorsky Military Systems.

"We look forward to collaborating with the Royal Australian Navy and local industry across Australia as we build and integrate these proven SEAHAWK aircraft."

Team Romeo principals Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) and Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] have co-developed and delivered maritime helicopters for the U.S. Navy for more than 35 years.

They are teamed with engine manufacturer GE Aviation, sonar and sensor provider Raytheon Company, and training and simulator provider CAE for the Phase 8 competition. In addition to delivering Romeo helicopters, the team plans to bring long-term jobs and work opportunities to Australian industry valued at $1.5 billion over 10 years.

"The MH-60R helicopter is a sophisticated sensor platform that has proven its ability to protect the U.S. fleet from submarines, ships and fast attack boats," said Dan Spoor, Lockheed Martin Aviation Systems vice president. "We are committed to providing the Australian fleet with the same advanced capabilities, as the U.S. Navy continues its investment in the aircraft."

The Commonwealth of Australia this week signed the Letter of Acceptance, a formal agreement with the U.S. Navy. The Letter of Acceptance marks the first-ever purchase of the U.S. Navy's MH-60R helicopter outside the United States. The Royal Australian Navy is expected to take delivery of the first two MH-60R helicopters in 2014.

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