Navy buys common data links for MH-60R helos

The Navy has awarded L-3 Communications a $27.9 million contract to build and deliver a common data link system that enables broadband connectivity between MH-60R helicopters and their host ships, the Defense Department said Sept. 12.

The scope of work also includes delivery of 7 AN/SRQ-4 Ku-band radio terminal sets for ship small surface combatants and 29 AN/ARQ-58 radio terminal sets for the MH-60R aircraft.

The Hawklink Ku-band tactical data link system gives the Sikorsky-built helicopters the capability to stream large quantities of data to their host ships and battle group commanders.

The MH-60R performs a variety of missions, such as anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, surveillance, search and rescue, communications relay, and gunfire and logistics support.

The work will be overseen by the Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md.