All weather helicopter designed for anti-submarine warfare.
Sikorsky Aircraft designed the all-weather SH-3 SeaKing family of helicopters primarily for a ship-based anti-submarine warfare mission. The Seaking could carry both SONAR detection equipment and a variety of weapons used to attack submarines. It also performed admirably in anti-ship surveillance, search and rescue, cargo and personnel transport, communications, and airborne early warning roles.
SeaKings served with the U.S. Navy from 1961 until 2006. They are among the most successful helicopters in history. Their missions have included presidential transport, torpedo and drone recovery, utility missions, Combat Search & Rescue and Anti-Submarine Warfare missions, and combat support.
Sikorsky Sea Kings have played a vital role in the American space program in recovering Gemini, Apollo, and Skylab mission crews from the decks of USS Hornet.
Crew: Two Pilots and Two System Operators (ASW) or up to 15 troops (Utility Role)
Powerplant: Two 1440 hp General Electric T-58-GE-403 Turboshaft Engines
Maximum Speed: 166 mph (267.1 kmh)
Service Ceiling: 15,000 ft (4572 m)
Range: 625 miles (1005.8 km)
Empty Weight: 12,350 Ibs (5601.9 kg)
Maximum Weight: 21,000 lbs (9525.6 kg)
Rotor Diameter: 62 ft (18.8 m)
Fuselage Length: 54 ft 9 in (16.68 m)
Height: 16 ft 8 in (5.03 m)
Armament: 840 Ibs (381 kg) of Torpeo, Depth Charges, or other stores