Sikorsky SH-3H Sea King

History

The H-3H is a twin engine, all weather, multi-purpose helicopter. The SH-3H is used to detect, classify, track and destroy enemy submarines. It also provides logistic support and search and rescue capability. The UH-3H and VH-3 are configured for combat support roles

The first version of this workhorse helicopter was flown more than 20 years ago. The Sea King is being replaced by SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopters as an anti-submarine warfare helicopter. The transition will last into the late 1990s. The Sea King will be converted to a search and rescue helicopter.

The SH-3H Sea King helicopter was flown from Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Five, HS-5, NAS Jacksonville, Florida on December 1994 to the Quonset Air Museum. Presently it is on loan from the U.S. Navy.

Specifications

Description

Manufacturer: Sikorsky Model S-61
Designation: SH-3
Version: H
Nickname: Sea King
Type: Carrier-based anti-submarine warfare
Navy Bureau Number: 149738
Crew: Four
Date Deployed: First flight: March 1959; Operational: June 1961

Functions by assignment

UH-3H, VH-3H (HC-2) — Helo combat support
SH-3H (HC-85) — Utility and torpedo recovery
SH-3H (HS-75) — Carrier-based anti-submarine warfare, reserve squadron stationed at NAS Quonset Point
SH-3H (NAS Oceana) — Search and rescue

Dimensions

Length: 73 ft
Fuselage length: 54 ft 9 in
Height: 17 ft
Rotor Diameter: 62 ft

Weights

Weight: 11,865 lb. empty
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 21,000 lb.

Propulsion

Power plant: Two General Electric T58-GE-10 turboshaft engines

Performance

Range: 542 nautical miles (623.3 statute miles)
Ceiling: 14,700 ft
Cruising Speed: 136 mph

Armament

Four Mk-46 torpedoes, two M-60 machine guns