“We
are pleased to have achieved this significant program milestone, which
in addition to the acceptance of the first aircraft signifies acceptance
of the aircraft design. This accomplishment was the result of significant
effort and cooperation between Kaman, the MoD, and the NZDF,”
stated Greg Steiner, President Kaman Aerospace Group.
Kaman and the MoD entered into a $120 million contract in May 2013 for
the purchase of ten state-of-the-art Kaman SH-2G(I) Super Seasprite
aircraft, spare parts, a full mission flight simulator, and related
logistics support. Additional aircraft are scheduled to be accepted
by the MoD in the next few weeks. The first three aircraft are projected
to arrive in Auckland in early 2015 with the remaining deliveries of
helicopters and equipment expected to occur by the end of 2015.
The SH-2G Super Seasprite is an advanced maritime weapon system and
proven day/night/all-weather multi-mission helicopter. Originally designed
to meet the exacting requirements of the U.S. Navy, the SH-2G Super
Seasprite has the highest power-to-weight ratio of any maritime helicopter,
assuring a safe return-to-ship capability even in single-engine flight
conditions. Its robust design, outstanding stability, and excellent
reliability have been proven through more than 1.5 million flight hours.
The SH-2G is a multi-mission maritime weapon system designed to fulfill
anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), over the
horizon targeting, surveillance, troop transport, vertical replenishment,
search and rescue, and utility missions. It is the largest, most powerful
small ship helicopter in use today and is recognized for its mission
effectiveness, support, and unmatched performance. The SH-2G Super Seasprite
is currently operated by the Royal New Zealand Navy, the Egyptian Air
Force and the Polish Navy. |
