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SH-2 Seasprite



SH-2 Seasprite
Originally designed in 1956 as a general purpose shipboard utility helicopter, the Seasprite was a common sight on both carrier flight decks and landing spots on other warships throughout the 1960's. As a rescue platform, the Seasprite was always the first aloft and the last to land during flight operations. The Seasprite was so successful, that during the Vietnam War several were armored and given gun armament to perform hazardous combat rescues of downed airmen over enemy territory.

In 1970, the Navy found a new mission for its light helicopters by developing an over-the-horizon search and strike ability for destroyers. Designated SH-2, the Seasprite hefted a radar and sonobuoys, as well as a pair of Mark 46 torpedoes. The SH-2F variant helped perfect the over-the-horizon doctrine until the SH-60 Seahawk reached the Fleet in the 1980's.


SH-2 Seasprite SH-2 Seasprite