Poland is negotiating to acquire a small number of Kaman SH-2G Seasprite naval helicopters, along with spare General Electric T700 turboshaft engines, to equip the first of two recently acquired ex-US Navy guided missile frigates.
The US Department of Defense has notified Congress of the proposed sale, though according to industry sources a finalised deal is some way off. It is discussing purchasing up to four of the second-hand anti-submarine helicopters following the delivery of an FFG-7-class frigate, which is expected to be supplemented by a second ship.
Poland's interest is understood to focus on some of the 12 SH-2G helicopters in service with the US Navy Reserve rather than acquiring and upgrading SH-2F machines stored in the desert.
The US Navy is planning to disband its last Seasprite squadron in 2001.
Source: Flight International