SH-2 Seasprite

The SH-2G Seasprite is a United States Navy 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.

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)