Air International 2006-12
D.Hobbs - World Ship-Borne Helicopter Survey /Military/
Kamov's Ka-27 is the standard ship-borne helicopter used by the Russian Navy. Surprisingly, despite its smaller size, the Ka-27 almost weighs the same as a Merlin.
Intended as a Sea King replacement for the Royal Navy and Italian Navy, Merlins are now in service with these two air arms. The helicopter was designed to be operated from frigates, though they also embark aboard larger ships as seen here.
Seven countries to date have ordered the NFH-90 - the naval variant of the NH-90. The type is yet to enter service, though the first example was handed over to the French Navy in May this year.
Sikorsky secured its first military customer for its S-92 when Canada decided to purchase this latest generation helicopter to replace its Sea Kings. This computer-generated image shows what the type will look like in Canadian service.
A Kaman SH-2G(NZ) Seasprite belonging to the Royal New Zealand Navy. These helicopters are capable of firing AGM-54 Maverick missiles and operate at sea from the country's two ANZAC class frigates.
Despite their age, Sea Kings remain in service with a number of countries. The Spanish Navy operates two types of Sea King, the SH-3W (an airborne early warning variant) and the SH-3D (pictured). The latter variant used to undertake the anti-submarine warfare mission, however they have been re-roled for amphibious assault.
A Chilean Navy AS332 Super Puma carrying an Exocet missile. It operates this type of helicopter from the country’s County class destroyers and Leander class frigates.
Westland's Lynx design has won a significant number of orders over the years. The current incarnation is the Super Lynx 300. Pictured is an example purchased by the Royal Malaysian Navy.
Sikorsky's Seahawk will be in service for many decades to come as the US Navy is introducing the latest version, the MH-60R, in 2007. Pictured is a SH-60B, which is one of the variants to be replaced by the new MH-60R.