Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite
Kaman Aerospace · USA · first flew 1989 · helicopter
The Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite is a twin-turboshaft shipboard maritime helicopter designed for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare from small warship decks.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 16 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Servo-flap Kaman rotor
- Stub sonobuoy sponsons
- Compact frigate-sized cabin
Identify it by the four-blade servo-flap main rotor, stubby fuselage with sensor sponsons, and a conventional tail rotor. Its small size relative to its capability marks it out among naval helicopters.
Specifications
- The Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite has a length of 16 m (52 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 13.5 m (44 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 256 km/h (159 mph).
- Typical crew: 3 (pilot, co-pilot, sensor operator).
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Developed from the earlier single-engine SH-2 Seasprite, the twin-engine SH-2G first flew in 1989 with uprated General Electric T700 engines and modernised mission systems. Its trademark Kaman servo-flap rotor control gives distinctive handling and a compact folded footprint.
Variants
Variants include the US Navy SH-2G and export SH-2G(A), (E) and (I) models for Australia, Egypt, New Zealand, Poland and others, differing chiefly in avionics and weapons fit.
Where you'll see it
Although not a UK type, the Super Seasprite fills the same frigate-helicopter niche as the Royal Navy's Lynx and Wildcat, operating dipping-sonar-free ASW with sonobuoys and lightweight torpedoes. New Zealand operated the type for many years before seeking a replacement.
Related aircraft
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