(taken
from: MFG5)
The
heavy amphibious Seaking was originaly designed as Model S-61 by
Sikorsky for the US Navy. In 1959 the first prototype of the XHSS-2,
as was the official US Navy designation was flown and entered troop
service as early as 1961.
The british helicopter manufacturer Westland was chosen to built
the Seaking in licence for the Royal Navy, and thus the first Seaking
was delivered to the Royal Navy in 1967.
(taken
from: "H-3 Seaking", Squadron/Signal)
In
the early 1970s German Navy officials described the need for a replacement
of the ageing SH-34 helicopters in use by
then. The new helicopter should be able to conduct Search and Rescue
missions under all wheather conditions and a longer range, than
the actual helicopter employed bei the Seenotrettungsstaffel of
MFG 5 at Kiel.
Westland incorporated the changes needed to meet the German requirements
and the first Mk.41 underwent trials between febraury 1972 and march
1974. These tests were so satisfying, that an additional examination
by the troops was seen as not needed.
(taken
from: unknown Internet source)
On
20th march 1974 the first of 22 Seakings was delivered to MFG 5
and went into service on 1st april. Operational use of the type
began a year later. Since then, Seakings were deployed to SAR stations
on the islands of Borkum, Helgoland and Sylt.
More
than 10 years after the invention as a heavy rescue helicopter,
reviews began in order to verify the Seakings abilities to be used
in the offensive role. The helicopter should be able to attack light
surface forces and serve as surveillance plattform for friendly
naval ships.
Modernization included the incorporation of a sophisticated Radar,
Radiojammers, Radarwarningreceivers and up to four Sea Skua anti-shipping
missiles along with their technical equipment.
Trials of the improved Seakings lasted from 1985 till beginning
of 1987. All 22 Seakings were brought to the new standard by MBB
at Speyer until 1992.
(taken
from: unknown Internet source)
Still
the Seakings maintask remained the SAR duty, and it's abilities
in this field were unharmed by the complex changes that were incorporated.
(taken
from: unknown Internet source)
Technical
data:
| Measures |
| Rotordiameter
: 18,90m |
| Length
: 22,20n |
| Height
: 5,10m |
| Weights |
| Weight empty
: 5200kg |
| max. Takeoff Weight: 9980kg |
| Performance |
| max. Speed
: 265km/h |
| Range
: 950km |
| Serviceceiling
: 11000ft |
| Engine |
| Rolls-Royce H-1400 |
| Thrust
: 2250kW |
(taken
from: MFG5)
