New Zealand has identified the Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk as the preferred option to replace its aging fleet of SH-2G(I) Seasprite maritime helicopters. The country plans to acquire five MH-60R Seahawks from the U.S. government, in a sale valued at about NZ$2 billion (US$1.6 billion), according to multiple reports. “The MH-60R Seahawk is a great aircraft for what New Zealand needs and fulfils our objective of having a more integrated Anzac force,” said Judith Collins, the national defense minister, in a statement. New Zealand’s aging fleet of Seasprites are flown by pilots from the Royal New Zealand Navy, and maintained by the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s No. “This decision will ensure New Zealand has a critical combat capable, interoperable and dependable fleet,” said Collins.