Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone

Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone

Type: Attack Helicopter

Domain: air

Country of Origin: United States

Manufacturer: Sikorsky Aircraft (Lockheed Martin)

First Deployed: 2018

Overview

American maritime helicopter providing Canadian Navy with ship-based anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare capability. Canada procured 28 CH-148 Cyclone (militarized Sikorsky S-92) after troubled development programme spanning two decades. Features advanced sensors including radar and sonobuoys, torpedoes and missiles, capacity for operations from frigates in severe weather including Arctic conditions. Despite development challenges, operational capability achieved mid-2010s with continued improvements. Critical for Canadian Navy Halifax-class frigates and future River-class destroyers providing over-the-horizon targeting, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue. Represents Canadian maritime helicopter modernization though programme costs significantly exceeded original estimates.

Technical Specifications

roleASW, anti-surface warfare, SAR, utility from frigates
sensorsTelephonics APS-143 radar, L-3 HELRAS dipping sonar, FLIR
armamentMk 46/54 torpedoes, door-mounted machine guns
base_platformHalifax-class frigates

Operators

Related air Weapon Systems