Digital MAD Capability Added to MH-60R

Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, and CAE have partnered to integrate CAE’s Magnetic Anomaly Detection-Extended Role (MAD-XR) system into MH-60R SEAHAWK helicopters. The digital MAD sensor enhances anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities by detecting underwater metallic objects through changes in the Earth's magnetic field.

Developed by CAE and integrated by Sikorsky with the aircraft’s mission computer, MAD-XR provides a compact, removable alternative to legacy systems. The device weighs under 20 pounds and can be installed in the tail cone of the MH-60R without permanent modification, allowing flexible use across aircraft.

“MH-60R operators now have the option to significantly upgrade their anti-submarine warfare capability using a small, removeable 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. “With recent upgrades to mission computer software, this non-acoustic digital MAD sensor can easily be installed into any operational MH-60R aircraft, and can operate independently or collaboratively with other mission systems, such as the aircraft’s sonobuoys or long-range active dipping sonar.”

Sikorsky, CAE, the U.S. Navy, and Royal Australian Navy teamed to integrate, test, and optimize the CAE MAD-XR capability.

In early 2024, the U.S. Navy released new software and hardware to MH-60R operators that will allow MH-60R aircraft to accept the digital MAD system. The capability was included in advanced technology upgrades the U.S. Navy releases to MH-60R operators every other year to ensure mission effectiveness and operational readiness.

In September 2024, Sikorsky was awarded a $21 million U.S. Navy contract — with CAE subsequently subcontracted — to deliver 20 DMAD kits for the Royal Australian Navy; six for the U.S. Navy; and two for evaluation by the U.S. Navy Reserve. Deliveries are to be completed in May 2026. The contract includes options for additional U.S. Navy orders of 24 kits each in 2025 and 2026.

Cliff Kyle, General Manager Sikorsky Australia welcomed the significant capability announcement and commended the Royal Australian Navy in being the first MH-60R operator to install the digital MAD capability on its fleet of MH-60R aircraft.

“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.”