A Norwegian crew has performed the first landing of a Danish MH-60R Seahawk helicopter on the Norwegian Coast Guard vessel Jan Mayen. This joint exercise with Denmark, conducted as part of the Exercise Pandion 2025, is a crucial step as Norway prepares to receive its own fleet of MH-60R Seahawks to replace its NH90s. The successful landing provides valuable operational experience for both the Norwegian Air Force and Coast Guard, enhancing their capability for future missions.

The landing took place following the re-establishment of 337 Squadron 131 Air Wing at Bardufoss.

“This is a major milestone for the entire maritime helicopter community. This collaboration with Denmark gives us valuable experience and means that we are well prepared when the Norwegian helicopters are put into operational operation.” said Lieutenant Colonel Kjetil Bjørkum, Commander of 337 Squadron. “The work of re-establishing helicopter capacity on the coast guard vessels is not just about new machines, but about building a complete and modern operational system”

The Norwegian crew were participating in an exchange program with Denmark, where Norwegian pilots and technicians receive training on the Seahawk. Denmark has operated the helicopter type since 2017 and the experiences they share are crucial for Norway to be ready to operate its own aircraft.

The exercise was a collaborative effort between the Norwegian and Danish armed forces, this event is a major milestone as Norway prepares to integrate the MH-60R into its own forces, with deliveries of its new fleet expected to be completed by 2027.

The program is the result of close cooperation between the Air Force, the Coast Guard and Defense and will ensure that Norwegian personnel have the necessary expertise before the six MH 60R Seahawks are delivered to the Coast Guard in the coming years.

During the exercise, both air and naval personnel received training in cross-deck operations, a term used when a helicopter from one vessel or nation operates from another country's vessel.

For the Air Force, this training provides practical experience in operating across systems and nations. For the Coast Guard, it means increased ability to receive and support various types of helicopters at sea, which is crucial for SAR, enforcement and surveillance in Norwegian waters.