Seasprite swoops in for visit

CN VADM Chris Ritchie tries the cockpit of a Seasprite on for size.

Photo: WOPH Steve Dent

The Navy will have sharper teeth next year, with the pending acceptance into service of the new Super Seasprite helicopter.

The two-crew helicopter has completed its initial trials with HMAS Parramatta and following further testing, is expected to be fully operational in about 12 months.

The RAN’s 11 SH-2G Seasprites are specifically designed for smaller ships such as the Australian and New Zealand Anzac FFHs.

They have a range of 500nm at a speed of about 250km/h. Pilot CMDR Peter Ashworth of 805 Squadron, brought one of the Seasprites to Canberra earlier this month to show off the “Cobras” to the Chief of the Defence Force, GEN Peter Cosgrove, and the Chief of Navy, VADM Chris Ritchie.

“We took them each for a 30 or 40 minute cruise around the district and I think they had fun,” he said proudly. CMDR Ashworth said it was a “comfortable” aircraft to work in and to fly.

“The Kaman helicopter flies differently from other helos,” he said.

“The key to the aircraft is its technology.”

He explained that an advanced single hydraulic control system for the rotors resulted in smoother flight and far less vibration. This in turn meant the Seasprite’s radars, sensors and complex computer systems were less likely to be affected by flying conditions.

“It’s a very intuitive aircraft,” CMDR Ashworth said.

The Navy’s SH-2Gs include anti-submarine and anti-surface over the horizon targetting, surveillance and search and rescue features.

Described by manufacturer Kaman as the world’s “largest, most powerful small ship helicopter”, Australia’s Seasprites will be equipped with the Penguin antiship missile and the Mk 46 antisubmarine torpedo.

Anzac class ships are making use of the Sea King helicopter while awaiting acceptance of the Super Seasprite.

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