SH-2 Seasprite
The Seasprite (fig. 8-56), an ex-utility helicopter, is
now serving in the LAMPS (light airborne
multipurpose system) program with the destroyer Navy.
CH-53D Sea Stallion
The Sea Stallion (fig 8-57) tows and operates
various mine countermeasure devices designed to
detect and neutralize submerged naval mines. CH-53D
squadrons are capable of rapid worldwide deployment.
SH-60B Seahawk
The Seahawk SH-60B (fig. 8-58) is placed aboard
frigates and destroyers. The Seahawk is the airborne
platform segment of the LAMPS Mk III weapons
system. It can carry personnel as well as weapons to
detect, localize, and destroy submarines at long range. It
is designed to be in constant voice and data link contact
with the ship’s CIC. In addition to its primary mission of
seeking and engaging submarines many miles from the
ship, the Seahawk helicopter is able to provide targeting
information for over-the-horizon, surface-to-surface
missiles. The secondary mission of the Seahawk
helicopter is search and rescue, medical evacuation,
vertical replenishment, and communications relay.
MH-53E Sea Dragon
The MH-53E (fig. 8-59) is used primarily for
airborne mine countermeasures, with a secondary
mission of shipboard delivery. The MH-53E Sea
Dragon is heavier and has a greater fuel capacity than its
ancestor, the CH-53E Super Stallion. MH-53s can
operate from carriers and other warships. The Sea
Dragon is capable of carrying up to 55 troops or a 16-ton
payload 50 nautical miles or a 10-ton payload 500
nautical miles. The MH-53E is capable of towing a
variety of mine-sweeping countermeasures systems,
including the Mk 105 minesweeping sled, the ASQ-14
8-41
Photograph courtesy of PH2(NAC) Jeff Viano
Figure 8-56.–SH-2 Seasprite
Photograph courtesy of SSGT D.W. Mobley
Figure 8-57.—CH-53D Sea Stallion airlifts grain for Somalia.
Student Notes:
Photograph courtesy of PH3 Anthony Haley
Figure 8-58.—SH-60B Seahawk aboard USS Carney
(DDG 64) during VERTREP.
