SH-2G Seasprite

Description: Ship-based helicopter with anti-submarine, anti-surface threat capability, including over-the-horizon targeting. This aircraft extends and increases shipboard sensor and weapon capabilities against several types of enemy threats, including submarines of all types, surface ships, and patrol craft that may be armed with anti-ship missiles.

Features: Seasprite's primary missions include anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, anti-ship missile defense, and anti-ship surveillance and targeting. Secondary missions may include medical evacuation, search and rescue, personal and cargo transfer, as well as small boat interdiction, amphibious assault air support, gun fire spotting, mine detection and battle damage assessment.

General Characteristics

Primary Function: ASW, ASuW, ASMD, ASST
Contractor: Kaman
Unit Cost: $26 million
Propulsion: Two T700-GE-401/401C turboshaft engines
Length: 52 feet 9 inches (15.9 meters)
Fuselage length: 40 feet, 6 inches (12.2 meters)
Height: 15 feet (4.5 meters)
Weight: 9,110 lbs. (4099.5 kg) empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 13,500 pounds (6075 kg) normal takeoff
Range: over 340 nautical miles (391 statute miles, 625.6 km.) with maximum fuel
Ceiling: 10,000 feet at 13,500 pounds (6,075 kg)
Speed: 150 knots maximum (172.5 mph, 277.55 km/hour)
Crew: Three
Armament: Two Mk 46 or Mk 50 torpedoes
Date Deployed:
First flight: July 2, 1959 (SH-2)
Operational: December 1964 (SH-2G)