Paul Lewis/OWEGO, NEW YORK
Spain is looking at upgrading its Sikorsky SH-60B Seahawks to the planned new SH-60R configuration. The US Navy, in the meantime, has said it is following closely a US Army study to re-engine its UH-60L Black Hawks.
The Spanish navy operates six SH-60Bs and is planning to order another six helicopters.
The naval shipboard helicopters are operated and configured similarly to the USN's 170 Light Airborne Multi Purpose System (LAMPS) III machines. Lockheed Martin Federal Systems is to deliver the first of 243 remanufactured SH-60Rs in 2002, by which time it is expected the navy will have cleared the upgraded version for foreign military sales. The remaining number of modified USN helicopters will consist of existing carrier-based SH-60F anti-submarine and HH-60s utility machines.
The navy, in addition to fitting the helicopters with a new common cockpit avionics suite and sensors package, is considering a follow-on powerplant enhancement. The US Army plans to seek funding in 2001 to begin preliminary work on a replacement Common Engine Programme for the proposed remanufactured UH-60X.
Capt Dale Milton, head of the US Navy's Multi Mission Helicopter Programme office, says the army and navy liaise closely on "future growth and the types of things one would need to add capacity to existing aircraft. I would maintain partnering with them and have insight into their activities".
The planned SH-60R modifications, including the installation of a new radar, forward-looking infrared radar, dipping sonar, acoustic processor, electronic support measures and additional weapons station, will increase the helicopter's maximum take-off weight from 9,926kg (21,884lb) to 10,700kg. A planned 2,240kW (3,000shp) drop-in replacement turboshaft for the General Electric T700-401 would provide greater margin for weight growth.
Source: Flight International
