Intro
Explore the versatile fleet of US Naval helicopters, comprising five primary types: Seahawk, Osprey, Sea Dragon, Seahorse, and Strike Hawk. Discover their distinct roles, capabilities, and cutting-edge technologies. Learn about anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and logistics support, as well as the future of naval aviation.
The United States Navy operates a variety of helicopters to perform different tasks, from anti-submarine warfare to search and rescue missions. These aircraft are critical components of the Navy's fleet, providing support for operations at sea and ashore. Here are five types of US Naval helicopters, each with its unique capabilities and roles.
1. Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk
The Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk is a multi-mission helicopter used by the US Navy for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and other tasks. The Seahawk is powered by two General Electric T700-GE-401C engines, giving it a maximum speed of 333 km/h (207 mph) and a range of 834 km (518 miles). Its primary role is to detect and engage submarines using its onboard sonar and torpedoes.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 12,000 kg (26,455 lbs)
- Crew: 3-4
- Length: 19.7 m (64 ft 9 in)
- Rotor diameter: 16.4 m (53 ft 9 in)
- Armament: 2 x Mark 46 torpedoes or 2 x AGM-114 Hellfire missiles
2. Bell UH-1Y Venom
The Bell UH-1Y Venom is a utility helicopter used by the US Navy for a variety of tasks, including search and rescue, medical evacuation, and transportation of personnel and cargo. The UH-1Y is powered by two General Electric T700-GE-401C engines, giving it a maximum speed of 352 km/h (219 mph) and a range of 592 km (368 miles). It features a four-blade main rotor and a tail rotor with a 20° angle to reduce noise and vibration.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 8,845 kg (19,504 lbs)
- Crew: 2
- Length: 17.7 m (58 ft 1 in)
- Rotor diameter: 14.7 m (48 ft 3 in)
- Armament: 2 x 12.7 mm machine guns or 2 x 70 mm rocket pods
3. Sikorsky MH-60 Romeo
The Sikorsky MH-60 Romeo is a multi-mission helicopter used by the US Navy for anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and other tasks. The MH-60R is powered by two General Electric T700-GE-401C engines, giving it a maximum speed of 333 km/h (207 mph) and a range of 834 km (518 miles). It features advanced sensors and avionics, including a multi-mode radar and an electronic support measures system.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 12,000 kg (26,455 lbs)
- Crew: 3-4
- Length: 19.7 m (64 ft 9 in)
- Rotor diameter: 16.4 m (53 ft 9 in)
- Armament: 2 x Mark 46 torpedoes or 2 x AGM-114 Hellfire missiles
4. Bell TH-57 Sea Ranger
The Bell TH-57 Sea Ranger is a training helicopter used by the US Navy to train pilots in basic helicopter flight skills. The TH-57 is powered by a single Lycoming T53-L-11A engine, giving it a maximum speed of 240 km/h (150 mph) and a range of 518 km (322 miles). It features a three-blade main rotor and a tail rotor with a 20° angle to reduce noise and vibration.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 2,041 kg (4,500 lbs)
- Crew: 2
- Length: 11.6 m (38 ft 1 in)
- Rotor diameter: 10.9 m (35 ft 10 in)
- Armament: None
5. Northrop Grumman MQ-8 Fire Scout
The Northrop Grumman MQ-8 Fire Scout is an unmanned helicopter used by the US Navy for reconnaissance and surveillance missions. The MQ-8 is powered by a single Rolls-Royce Allison 250-C20F engine, giving it a maximum speed of 201 km/h (125 mph) and a range of 324 km (201 miles). It features a four-blade main rotor and a tail rotor with a 20° angle to reduce noise and vibration.
Key Features:
- Maximum takeoff weight: 1,446 kg (3,190 lbs)
- Length: 7.9 m (25 ft 11 in)
- Rotor diameter: 8.4 m (27 ft 6 in)
- Armament: None
US Naval Helicopters Image Gallery
What is the primary role of the Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk?
+The primary role of the Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk is anti-submarine warfare.
What is the maximum speed of the Bell UH-1Y Venom?
+The maximum speed of the Bell UH-1Y Venom is 352 km/h (219 mph).
What is the Northrop Grumman MQ-8 Fire Scout used for?
+The Northrop Grumman MQ-8 Fire Scout is used for reconnaissance and surveillance missions.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the different types of US Naval helicopters. These aircraft play a critical role in supporting the Navy's operations at sea and ashore, and their advanced capabilities make them essential assets for the US military. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about US Naval helicopters, please leave a comment below.