“MH-60R operators now have the option to significantly upgrade their anti-submarine warfare capability using a small, removable device that senses changes in the Earth’s magnetic field caused by large metallic objects in the water,” said Tish Rourke, Sikorsky Maritime Systems vice president. She added that the sensor can be installed on any operational MH-60R and operate independently or in coordination with existing systems like sonobuoys or dipping sonar.
Weighing less than 20 pounds (9 kg), the compact MAD-XR system includes sensitive magnetometers and a processor/interface unit, with installation requiring no permanent modification to the aircraft. The system provides crews with audio alerts and displays target contact and range, and can be quickly transferred between aircraft as needed.
“CAE’s MAD-XR offers a cutting-edge solution to detect and track submarines and other underwater threats, significantly enhancing military aircraft capabilities – it is the trusted choice for defence and security applications worldwide,” said France Hébert, Division President, Defense & Security Canada and Global Operations Lead. She affirmed CAE’s commitment to supporting integration on the MH-60R, enabling superior performance in varied operational environments.
The integration, testing, and optimisation of the MAD-XR system involved collaboration between Sikorsky, CAE, the U.S. Navy, and Royal Australian Navy. In early 2024, the U.S. Navy released new mission software and hardware enabling the MH-60R fleet to operate the digital MAD system as part of ongoing biennial technology upgrades.
In September 2024, Sikorsky received a $21 million U.S. Navy contract to supply 28 MAD-XR kits, including 20 for the Royal Australian Navy, six for the U.S. Navy, and two for U.S. Navy Reserve evaluation, with deliveries scheduled through May 2026. The agreement also includes options for an additional 24 kits in both 2025 and 2026 for the U.S. Navy.
Cliff Kyle, General Manager Sikorsky Australia, highlighted the Royal Australian Navy’s role as the first MH-60R operator to implement the new capability. “Through our partnership with the Royal Australian Navy, Sikorsky Australia’s workforce look forward to playing their role in fielding and sustaining this important and cutting-edge capability, which further strengthens Australia’s MH-60R Seahawks’ fleet lethality,” he stated.
The MAD-XR offers significant advantages over the legacy AN/ASQ-81 MAD sensor previously used on SH-60B helicopters, which was heavier and externally mounted. The new system’s streamlined design and ease of integration provide enhanced operational flexibility for modern maritime missions.
