Naval Helicopters: An Overview of Asian Latest Fleets

Naval helicopters, as it is termed, are specifically built for military sorties in the open sea. Sometimes known as maritime helicopters, these rotor-winged aircraft are used as a mean of troop transport, combat search and rescue operation (CSAR), medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) as well as combat purposes. These helicopters, exclusively intended for specific missions, are categorised into different categories such as tactical helicopters, surveillance helicopters as well as anti-submarine helicopters.

The induction of naval helicopters, onboard warships, has to a great extent, enhanced navies’ operational efficiency. While modern helicopters are able to carry out multiple types of missions, naval helicopters of the early days were assigned solely as plane guards, tasked to discover and recover aircrew of ditched plane and helicopters throughout an aircraft carrier flight operation.

The advancement of technologies saw manufacturers producing helicopters equipped with integral dunking sonar, advanced radar system plus magnetic anomaly detection equipment which in turn enabled manufacturers to assemble helicopters with a higher payload capacity and longer endurance. Helicopters are now able to function with less dependency on parent and other warships.

To date, all naval helicopters are finely equipped with most advanced avionics, efficient and powerful engines, precise and lethal armaments as well as adequate protection against the unforgiving sea conditions especially salt water corrosion. ASPAC Defence looks at a number of naval helicopters in service or about to enter service across the Asia-Pacific.

Sikorsky MH-60R

The MH-60 of R variant from Sikorsky, designated as “Seahawk” was originally referred as “LAMPS Mark III Block II Upgrade”. The helicopter, according to Sikorsky was designed with combined quality from the SH-60B and SH-60F helicopters, producing a multi-role helicopter capable of handling missions in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), CSAR and MEDEVAC.

Kitted with the deadly Mk-54 active homing torpedo, the MH-60R is a great force against sub-surface threats. The new MH-60R warfare sensor has made it a game-changer. Retrofitted with the new AN/APS multi-mode radar, MH-60R is capable of displaying ten times the number of tracks compared to the previous system and the Electronic Support Measure (ESM) system has a passive capability that provides greater accuracy compared to earlier versions.

The equipment of these state-of-the-art technologies has put the MH-60R into a leading naval helicopter, with thousands of logged operation hours with the US Navy. Powered by two General Electric T700-GE-401C turbo-shaft engines, each producing 1911shp, the MH-60R is able to reach a maximum flight speed of 144 knots (267 km/h). Adding up to that, pilots instrumentation are configured with digital displays that resemble the glass cockpit of the MH-60S, another variant of the Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk helicopters.

Australia, on 2011 has announced the procurement of Sikorsky’s MH-60R for the nation’s defence force’s requirement, a demand for a fleet of 24 new-generation multi-role naval combat helicopter. Upon deliveries, Sikorsky will put up their plan to bring long-term jobs and work opportunities to the Australian industry, which is estimated to value at USD1.5 billion. Sikorsky added that the Royal Australian Navy is expected to take delivery of the first MH-60R beginning 2014. In addition to that, the Republic of Singapore Navy has recently ordered an additional two units of the S-70B helicopters to add to the six already in service with delivery expected to take place in 2016 while the Royal Brunei Air Force is due to receive their S-70i Black Hawk by the end of this year, ahead of its schedule time. The twelve RBAF helicopters are expected to carry out maritime duties as well.

AgustaWestland AW159

The AW159, earlier acknowledged as Future Lynx or the Lynx Wildcat, is a new generation naval helicopter, first inducted into the British Army and Royal Navy services. The helicopter, an improvised version of the top-notch Westland Super Lynx was manufactured for hazardous battlefield deployment, CSAR mission as well as ASuW.

AW159 comes out of assembly line equipped with a semi-rigid rotor head that contributes to the helicopter’s high agility, matching the operating capabilities of the legendary Lynx helicopter. In addition to that, AgustaWestland also fits the helicopter with high performance composite rotor blades, which at one point of history assisted the Lynx helicopter to break the world helicopter speed record.

The helicopter is driven by two LHTEC CTS 800-HN engines, each producing 1361shp, with the ability to operate in hot and high environment. Aircrew operation also is moreover succored by the integration of four 10”x8” cockpit displays combined with up to date, fully integrated avionics. AgustaWestland has as well made a decision to manufacture the AW159 with anti-ship missiles, torpedoes and door-mounted guns, specially fitted for combat purposes.

The government of South Korea, on Jan 15 heralded the procurement of AW159 to fulfil its Navy’s requirement. The selection, according to the Royal Navy, will strengthen their bilateral relationship with the Korean counterpart. Deliveries which are expected to commence in 2015 until 2016 will see the helicopter equipped with various cutting-edge technologies including active dipping sonar, 360 degree scan radar, nose mounted electro-optical device and a rescue hoist.

AgustaWestland Super Lynx

The Super Lynx, a multi-role, multi-mission maritime and utility helicopter by AgustaWestland is presently operational with various world leading armed forces, a proven fact of its ability to outnumber other helicopters of similar class. Built with fully-marinised airframe, the helicopter was designed to withstand the harmful salt-water corrosion during rigorous sea-operation conditions.

With small ship deployment in mind, the helicopter was primarily designed with exceptional features including lower centre of gravity, foldable blades and tail for trouble-free storage as well as a mixture of other rugged characteristics. In order to operate within the harsh maritime environment, AgustaWestland came up with the resolution to fit the Super Lynx with two LHTEC CTS800-4N engines, generating 1361shp capacity, boosted by a single engine capability. This, in a larger picture, helps support the helicopter’s operation ability in a demanding hot and high condition deployments.

The Super Lynx is technically equipped with an advanced Night Vision Goggle (NVG) compatible cockpit, integrated avionics suite as well as an array of optional equipments, meant to enable the helicopter to deliver day and night, all-weather ASW, ASuW and CSAR missions. The technologies that come along the Super Lynx have been proven to support numbers of autonomous operation in detecting and prosecuting targets.

Members of ASEAN countries such as Malaysia and Thailand have chosen the Super Lynx as their superior naval helicopter, with six currently operational in the Royal Malaysian Navy and four in the Royal Thailand Navy. The helicopter, along other naval assets has become a key player in maintaining maritime sovereignty for both countries alike.

Eurocopter EC725

The EC725, a top of the line helicopter by Eurocopter, also named the Super Cougar is a long-range tactical transport helicopter, in the beginning developed from the long-standing Puma family. Surprisingly, despite the primary purpose of land operation utilisation, the EC725 has become a popular naval helicopter thanks to the various developments and upgrades by Eurocopter.

Derived from the civilian EC225 model, Eurocopter has deliberately built the EC725 for military use, with a twin-engine configuration along a spacious cabin, capable of transporting up to 29 soldiers. Despite the noticeably large size, the Super Cougar was designed to perform multiple types of mission including MEDEVAC and CSAR.

In support of security and self-defence, the EC725 is equipped with expanded weapons load including two 7.62mm FN MAG machine guns, an option of two 68mm Thales Brandt or Forges Zeebrugge rocket launchers, two 20mm GIAT cannons and also the Dassault Electronique EWR-99 FRUIT RWR radar warning receiver. These armaments were intended to come along the helicopter to ensure higher survival ability in dangerous combat environments.

At the heart of the helicopter are two powerful Turbomeca Makila 2A1 turboshaft engines featuring a dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system. Driven by both engines, the helicopter is capable to cruise at a speed of 285 km/h with an outstanding efficient range of 1339km. The EC725, according to Eurocopter, can also be optionally equipped with an anti-icing system, a key feature meant to support very cold climates operation.

Catered for the crew is an integration package of advanced multi-display cockpit consisting of a hi-tech display system featuring a digital map as well as the Active Matrix LCD system. In addition to that, the Forward Looking Infra Red (FLIR) equipped in the helicopter enables the EC725 to perform day and night CSAR.

The EC725, which has proven its capabilities with the Brazilian and the French armed forces, is now operational in the Royal Malaysian Air Force. Currently in manufacturing stage for the Indonesia Air Force and Royal Thai Air Force, the EC725 is set to be delivered circa 2014 and 2015 respectively.

Bell 412EP

With the introduction of the 412EP model, Bell has once again made its presence felt, with purchase agreements by more than 20 countries, surpassing most of its competitors in term of sale revenue.

The Bell 412 was developed during the 70’s when Bell converted the up-and-flying 212 model into the 412 prototype. From the two-bladed 212 model, Bell has radically altered the helicopter with the integration of the four-bladed rotor thus producing the latter version, the 412 type and it was until recent years that Bell came up with the 412EP (Enhanced Performance) model.

Featuring the trademarked BLR Strake and Fast Fin systems, the 412EP model has proven its ability to deliver improved hovering ability in crosswind as well as hot and high conditions. This is added with low fuel consumption, a characteristic very important in this critical period when even the richest country is cutting on military expenditure. Pratt & Whitney was awarded the responsibility to supply their engines for the 412EP helicopters and they came up with the PT6T-3DF Twin Pac engines offering guaranteed Time Between Overhaul (TBO) of 4000 to 5000 hours.

Bell 412EP, through the enormous 2.3 metres door opening has made soldiers and equipment transportation easier. Added with ergonomic seating configuration, the 412EP is able to accommodate 15 soldiers, including two crewmembers. These characteristics, along with the adoption of rupture resistance fuel cells, energy absorbing crew seats as well as the collective mounted throttles has enabled Bell to produce a helicopter with greater and higher safety limitations.

The Bell 412EP, introduced as a multi-purpose utility helicopter, has a capability to cruise at a speed of 226 km/h with a maximum flight range of up to 980 km. Weighing slightly less than three tonnes, the helicopter is a good option for fast and light utilisation. Latest update in the ASEAN region saw the Indonesian army receiving six Bell 412EP helicopters with an addition of 16 units of similar model with deliveries expected to complete by the end of 2014. Currently, the Bell 412EP is operational with various armed forces including the Philippines, South Korea and Thailand.

AgustaWestland AW109

The AW109 is a lightweight, twin engine, eight-seater, multi-purpose helicopter built by the Anglo-Italian manufacturer AgustaWestland. Introduced in 1971 as A109, the helicopter has proven itself in light transport, MEDEVAC, CSAR and various military roles.

Initially a civilian helicopter, the A109 has gone through various modifications and upgrades in fulfilling the ever-challenging military demands consequently resulting the introduction of the AW109. AgustaWestland has come up with optional engines, either the Pratt & Whitney PW206C or the Turbomeca Arrius 2K1, both supported by FADEC system.

The system, supported by a digital glass cockpit consisting of six digital LCD instrumentation with modern softwares has help to reduce pilot workload, which in a way grants them the essential time and space to focus on mission execution. Categorised in a three-tonne class, the helicopter has a considerably spacious cabin mainly designed to fit numbers of modular equipments for an easy and timeless conversion between roles.

Safety measures, like any other helicopter manufacturers, were critically taken into consideration therefore resulting the decision to include a fully separated fuel system for less fire risk, dual hydraulic boost system, dual electrical system as well as redundant lubrication and cooling system for main transmission and engines.

AgustaWestland has additionally reinforced the landing gear on all AW109 model for a safer and long-lasting shipboard operations. Extensive corrosion protection is not left out to ensure the helicopter’s robustness in maritime settings. These improvements underline the AW109 ability to perform missions in extreme weathers and environments.

To date, the Philippine Navy, which is going through modernisation initiatives, has agreed to purchase three AW109 in a process of boosting its maritime security and disaster response capabilities. The purchase comprises personnel trainings added with initial logistic support amounting to USD 31.7 million. The decision, according to the Philippine Navy, was made on many aspects, mainly of its cost-effectiveness. Delivery is set to take place in 2014.

Eurocopter AS555 Fennec

On January 2011, the Royal Malaysian Navy PASKAL commandos have executed a recovery mission on a hijacked Malaysian tanker with remarkable success, supported by the Fennec helicopter. The mission, conducted against the brutal Somali pirates, saw the Fennec acted as reconnaissance and aerial guardian to keep the pirate’s ship away from the combat scene. The event made into news headlines worldwide, with the Fennec portrayed as a key player during the event.

The AS555 Fennec is a multipurpose military helicopter, manufactured by Eurocopter primarily for navies’ utilisation. The helicopter was at first designed based on the AS350 Ecureuil and AS355 Ecureuil 2 series and later named Fennec, after the Fennec Fox.

Weighing around 2.8 tonnes, the Fennec is powered by two Turbomeca Arrius 1A turboshaft engines, rated at 415kW readily equipped with the FADEC system, enabling the helicopter to perform automatic sequenced engine starting. Eurocopter has also included two integral fuel tanks; with 1202 litres fuel capacity, allowing a maximum flight range of 695km.

Beyond that, the helicopter can also be fitted with a wide range of weapons load to fulfil mission and operation requirements of many armed forces. The weaponry include missiles, rockets and guns such as the Forges de Zeebruge rocket launcher carrying seven 2.75in rockets and the Thales Brandt 68mm launcher carrying 12 rockets. For ship borne operation, the helicopter comes with ASW and over the horizon (OTH) targeting features, as well as a chin-mounted Telephonics RDR-1500B X-band, 360-degree digital colour radar, for search and surveillance application.

In favour of crew operation support, the helicopter is provided with a night vision compatible cockpit. This, despite being a common feature in most naval helicopters, is furthermore adjoined with the Thales Avionics Nadir 10 navigation system, a Sagem 85 T31 three-axis autopilot and Thales Detexis RDN 85 Doppler radar.

The AS555 Fennec 2, having served the Royal Malaysian Navy for the past nine years as multi-role training helicopter is now still operational, and its newer generation, the AS550 is in operation with the Pakistan Navy while some are currently in production for the Royal Thailand Navy.

Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin/ Harbin Z-9

Dauphin helicopter is a renowned rotary-wing aircraft, having served some of the world biggest armed forces including the USA and India. Derived from the single-engined, Aerospatiale’s SA 360 Dauphin variant, the helicopter has build up its reputation as corporate transport, airborne law enforcement platform, emergency medical services (EMS) helicopter, electronic news gathering platform as well as SAR helicopter.

The helicopter, assigned as navy’s multipurpose helicopter, has gone through rigid developments, for example the integration of two Turboméca Arriel 2C engines, accumulatively producing more than 1600shp. The engine capacity contributes to the helicopter’s performance, with manufacturer maximum speed limit of 165 knots (306 km/h). The helicopter, weighing approximately 2.5 tonnes is capable to cruise to a total distance of 827km with the service ceiling limited at 5865 metres.

The Republic of China, through legal licensing process by Aerospatiale, has been given the rights to produce helicopters based on the original AS365 Dauphin model. They came up with the Harbin Z-9, a total resemblance of the original model. Through self-research and development, newer Z-9 models have been fitted with composite materials to increase structural strength as well as producing lower radar signature.

To date, the AS365 Dauphin/ Z-9, despite the introduction way back during the 70’s are currently still in production with demands by many civilian bodies and armed forces around the globe. Record shows that the Dauphin/ Z-9 helicopter is currently operational with various Asian navies such as Australia, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Laos and Pakistan.

Naval Surface to Air Missiles in Modern Warfare Insecurity

It is not an overstatement that air defence remains one of the most critical elements in ensuring a ship’s survival in the battlefront. The agility in performing evasive manoeuvres coupled with adequate counter-measures promises a ship’s survival-ability in the open sea.

We are going through the period where rich nations are radically arming its armed forces with lethal offensive capabilities. Through the procurement of 5^th generation combat aircraft, they are poised to flex their air-superiority muscles thus urging the need for necessary air defence measures by neighbouring countries.

In order to overcome the possibility of overwhelming air threats, navies around the world have initiated a series of modernisation efforts through various enhancements and development of onboard defence systems. The modernisation programmes include the upgrade of radars, firepower and necessary armor. While radars and armors stands as a passive defence measures, the equipment of stronger firepower onboard ships ensures one ability to generate offensive measures against not only aerial threats, but also against surface and underwater threats. ASPAC Defence brings you about a number of latest naval surface-to-air missiles currently serving navies around the globe. 

Aster 15/30

The Aster missile family, namely the Aster 15 and Aster 30 were inaugurated in 1989 when France and Italy signed an MoU on the development of indigenous surface-to-air missiles. Development took place up until October 2002 when Aster first went into service onboard French aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle. Developed based on the Principal Anti-Air Missile System (PAAMS) as well as the Surface-Air Anti Missile (SAAM) system, both Aster 15 and 30 were designed to perform air defence manoeuvres, especially in anti-ballistic roles. Operators of the Aster missiles may boldly rely on Aster missiles’ capability of countering ballistic missiles upon target’s re-entry.

Aster 15 and 30, though both operate on Vertical Launching System (VLS), differs in a few significant characters. While the slightly smaller Aster 15 is capable of engaging targets to a range of 30km, Aster 30 has a longer range in excess of 100km. Having an effective altitude of approximately 13km, Aster 15 has an engagement speed of around Mach 3 while Aster 30’s speed tops at Mach 4.5 with maximum altitude of 20km. Thanks to its larger build up, Aster 30 is able to accommodate larger booster stage hence the superiority in range, speed and altitude compared to the smaller Aster 15. Both missiles are steered using PIF-PAF system, which enables them to handle 60G during flight as well as preventing structure rupture in an event of trajectory corrections.

Aster 15 and 30 each is equipped with active radar homing, enabling them to identify and maintain target engagement during trajectory. Both missiles were designed to suit Sylver missile systems, namely the A-43, A-50 and A-70 variants or several other platforms of similar size such as the Mark 41 VLS. Aster 15 is available in only single variant while Aster 30 has been developed into four variants including standard Block 0, Block 1, Block 1NT (New Technology) as well as Block 2. Block 1 is Aster 30’s land version for protection against 600km-range ballistic missiles, while Block 1NT is set to perform counter-measure against 1000km-range ballistic missiles. The later is to provide defence against 3000km-range ballistic missiles.

Since its inauguration, the Aster missile family has been widely selected by several leading armed forces in the world. Having served its home nations, France and Italy, Aster missiles have also known to serve the Royal Navy, Singapore Navy as well as Saudi Arabian Navy.

Aspide 2000

Introduced as MBDA’s medium range surface-to-air missile, Aspide 2000 went through R&D and upgrades based on Aspide multi-role missile platform, with the anticipation of 40% performance increase compared to its predecessor. Aspide 2000 is available for sea and land operation, maximising its potential for global operators. Unlike the Aster missiles, Aspide 2000 is only equipped with the commonly used semi-active radar homing thus necessitating additional guidance from external sources. The absence of a higher-tech guidance system is made up by the engagement range, which measures up to 25km. This feature is furthermore enhanced with the missile’s maximum altitude, rated with the ability to strike targets cruising 3.5km above ground.

Aspide 2000 operates on a number of platforms including Albatros, Spada, Skyguard as well as Amoun. These systems consist of both naval and land platforms, readily available for armed forces all over the world. Aspide 2000 missiles are currently in service with armed forces from Egypt, Pakistan and Spain. In addition to this, the missile too, is also supporting Italian Air Force and Royal Thai Air Force as part of their Skyguard air defence system. Kuwait is the latest nation armed with Aspide 2000. Following an order of upgrade on its older Aspide missile system, Kuwait has since received the system and executed a series of exercises and trials. Since 2007 pending January last year, Kuwait has successfully launched 19 Aspide 2000 missiles in varying weather conditions. During the January 2013 exercise, Aspide 2000 has accomplished a major milestone, having neutralised two remotely flown Banshee aircraft. The milestone has proven Aspide 2000’s capability and its potential to form a part of a reliable air defence system. It is not an overstatement that Aspide 2000 can be perceived as one of the best option to fill the gap between a long-range missile system and a ship’s gun close-in weapon system.

Barak-8

The Barak-8 SAM programme was initiated right at the dead end of Indian’s Akash and Trishul missile programme. India required a superior missile and the success of BrahMos joint-venture missile programme has inspired the Indian to search for partners in order to develop a fully capable SAM missile, which later on developed into the Barak-8. The venture took place between India’s DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries, with a clear intention to build a primary naval air defence system for both nations.

Barak-8 is fully capable of striking targets as far as 70km, with an operation altitude limited to 16km. The missile features a dual-pulse rocket motor, which is able to thrust the missile at a speed in excess of Mach 2. Its physical build up allows for extreme manoeuvrability, making it a suitable candidate for defence against variety of airborne targets including anti-ship missiles, aircraft as well as UAVs. Barak-8 missile is additionally equipped with active radar homing, compromising the requirement of external input as well as maximising target-hit probabilities.

Recent development saw Indian order of the Barak-8 missile system in 2009, a contract reported to worth around $1.1 billion. The order took place followed by an episode of successful trials in Israel on May 2010. As of July last year, the Israeli armed forces has began arming its Sa’ar 5-class warships with Barak-8 missiles and they are also anticipating the two recently ordered German-built Meko-class frigates to be fitted with similar missile system. In addition to that, the Indian Navy has reportedly planned to fit the Barak-8 missile system onboard its aircraft carrier, INS Vikramaditya. The carrier, having reached its home base earlier this year, was set to receive the system by 2017, after several years of delay.

RIM-162 ESSM

Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile, acronymed ESSM is an international missile development programme cooperatively ventured by member nations including the US, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, The Netherlands, Norway, Spain, and Turkey. The missile went through thorough development, based on the Sea Sparrow Missile programme; having undergone panoply of upgrades hence the introduction of the ESSM.

ESSM was co-developed and manufactured by Raytheon, a US leading defence manufacturer. The RIM-162 missile is a high-speed missile, capable of travelling at a maximum speed of Mach 4 and able to hit targets as far as 50km. The ESSM is equipped with semi-active radar homing, making it a more suitable option for cost-conscious operators due to the cheaper and simpler system integrated onboard.

The missile first entered service in 2004, after going through series of trials by member nations. The US conducted operational evaluation in July 2002 while the Australian test-fired the missile in October 2003. This was later followed by the Royal Netherlands Navy as well the German Navy. Like other missiles in its class, ESSM too has the ability to perform high-G manoeuvres during flight. This is proven in a May 2013 event when the missile has successfully intercepted a high-diving supersonic test target.

ESSM is operational with a number of launchers namely the Mk29, Mk41, Mk48 and Mk56 vertical launchers. Other than serving the initial 10 nations that cooperatively ventured into the development of the ESSM, the missile is also in service with Japan and Thailand. Its presence within the industry has highlighted its capability in countering threats of all sorts including anti-ship cruise missiles as well as low-velocity and sea-skimming threats.

VL MICA

MBDA’s line of missiles continues to stand high with the introduction of its latest addition to their MICA family of missiles. The missile history takes us back to 1982 when Matra, a French corporation that involved in a wide range of international commercial activities first introduced their first MICA missile. Development took place until 1991 and was later put into its first trial in the same year. The missile was commissioned in 1996, initially armed onto French Rafale and Mirage 2000 before Mitra’s missile segment was later taken over by MBDA.

The latest member of the MICA missile family is the VL MICA. This missile is available in two variants, VL MICA for land operation and VL MICA-M for naval operation. Each variant is available in two options, either equipped with IR seeker or RF seeker. These optional features enable the missile to cater to different requirements of many armed forces. Overseeing the missile variants collectively, one can see that MICA missiles are able to operate from all three domains; land, air and sea.

VL MICA-M is a medium-range area defence missile, capable to engage targets within 12km range. It also has a lower operation ceiling compared to MBDA’s other surface-to-air missiles, at a maximum elevation of 11km. The missile is equipped with high-tech active radar homing, permitting it to independently lock onto targets with minimal external input. VL MICA-M has a maximum speed of Mach 3 with two seconds interval time between launch.

Due to its versatile features, the MICA missiles, particularly the VL MICA-M has been the weapon of choice by many armed forces. While the VL MICA is serving air forces all over the world, the VL MICA-M is currently in service with navies including the French Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman.