In a decisive move to enhance its air rescue and special operations capabilities, Norway is set to procure up to nine HH-60W Jolly Green II combat rescue helicopters from the United States. Valued at approximately $2.6 billion, the proposed Foreign Military Sale (FMS) was recently approved by the U.S. State Department, reflecting deeper transatlantic defense cooperation and Norway’s growing emphasis on rapid-response readiness in increasingly volatile global theaters.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has formally notified Congress of the deal, which includes a comprehensive support package. Alongside the helicopters, Norway will receive twenty-two T700-GE-401 engines, twenty-one GPS/INS navigation units (three as spares), and an extensive suite of survivability enhancements such as radar and missile warning systems, countermeasure dispensers, advanced machine guns, and infrared target designators. The package also covers mission planning infrastructure, software suites, and extensive logistics and training support from both the U.S. government and defense contractors.
This acquisition represents a leap in operational capability for the Royal Norwegian Air Force, particularly in personnel recovery missions conducted in high-risk environments. The HH-60W is engineered for the rigors of combat search and rescue (CSAR) and is the most advanced member of the Black Hawk helicopter family. With NATO-aligned systems and technology tailored for Arctic and high-latitude operations, the helicopter will significantly bolster Norway’s rapid-response infrastructure and improve its operational synergy with alliance partners.
From a technical standpoint, the HH-60W is designed to endure and prevail in hostile skies. Powered by twin GE T700-GE-701D engines, the helicopter carries nearly twice the fuel of its predecessor (660 gallons internally), extending its reach deep into contested or remote areas. Its fly-by-wire flight controls, secure comms, and fully digital cockpit offer the pilot unmatched control and situational awareness. Integrated self-defense includes radar warning receivers, missile detection and countermeasures, and robust armor systems—vital for surviving combat insertions and extractions.
Internally, the HH-60W is tailored for pararescue missions, medevac operations, and tactical insertions. With provisions for .50-caliber GAU-21 machine guns and optional 7.62 mm M240s, it brings both rescue and firepower to the fight. The helicopter’s open systems architecture ensures that it can evolve with future upgrades and maintain interoperability with NATO forces—crucial for joint operations in complex threat environments.
Beyond its technical specifications, the HH-60W symbolizes a strategic shift in Norway’s defense posture. As NATO increasingly emphasizes high-readiness, forward-deployable forces, this platform provides Norway with a versatile tool capable of executing casualty evacuations, rescuing isolated personnel, and supporting special operations—no matter the weather, time of day, or threat level.
For Norway, the Jolly Green II is more than a helicopter—it is an assurance that critical missions can be completed even in the most adverse conditions. Its deployment will ensure that wounded troops or downed pilots are not left behind, aligning with NATO’s principle of force preservation and Norway’s commitment to resilient, mobile, and combat-ready defense forces.
Ultimately, the HH-60W acquisition underscores Norway’s role as a proactive and capable NATO member, ready to operate in some of the harshest and most contested regions on Earth. It strengthens not only Norway’s national defense but also the collective readiness of the alliance in an evolving security landscape.
