In a major boost to NATO’s northern defences, Norway has secured US approval for a potential $2.6 billion deal to buy Sikorsky HH-60W “Jolly Green II” combat rescue helicopters, marking a crucial upgrade to its rotary-wing fleet.
Announced by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) this week — with final Congressional approval still pending — the package will include new helicopters, advanced mission systems, defensive suites, communications equipment, spares, and comprehensive training for Norwegian aircrews and maintainers.
By Jarryd Sinovich
The HH-60W will plug critical gaps left by Norway’s premature retirement of its troubled NH90 fleet in 2022. The new aircraft will bolster Norway’s combat search and rescue (CSAR) and special operations capabilities, especially in the Arctic and High North, where harsh conditions and strategic proximity to Russia demand robust, rapid-response support.
“This acquisition will improve Norway’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing its airborne combat and special operations capabilities,” the DSCA noted.
A Proven, Battle-Ready Platform
Already operational within the US Air Force, the HH-60W is combat-proven and designed to survive high-threat environments while recovering downed personnel or supporting special forces. Its integration will strengthen interoperability across NATO’s northern flank and improve collective defence readiness.
Norway’s decision also aligns with its broader strategy to increase national rapid response capacity amid rising geopolitical tensions in the North Atlantic and Arctic regions.
Once Congress gives the final green light, the deal will see Norway’s aircrews trained to fly and maintain the HH-60W — a platform trusted for demanding CSAR missions, special ops insertion, and Arctic contingencies.
For NATO allies, the move is a strong signal that Norway is determined to remain a capable and resilient partner — ready to respond, rescue, and defend where it matters most.
