Manufactured by Sikorsky, the CH-148 Cyclone is replacing the CH-124 Sea King as Canada’s main ship-borne maritime helicopter, flying missions from Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) surface vessels.
According to the RCAF, this new fleet of aircraft is at the forefront of modern technology and one of the most capable maritime helicopters in the world.
The Cyclone serves a number of key roles and participate in a variety of activities. It conducts anti-submarine warfare (ASW), surveillance, and search and rescue missions. It also provides tactical transport for national and international security efforts. This twin-engine helicopter is compatible with the latest high-tech naval frigates and includes several new safety features. Its aluminum and composite airframe is built with lightning-strike and high-intensity radio frequency pulse protection. The aircraft also incorporates flaw tolerance and engine burst containment.
Technical Specifications
| Length | 17.22 m |
|---|---|
| Length (folded configuration) | 14.78 m |
| Rotor span | 17.48 m |
| Height | 5.44 m |
| Weight | 9,934 kg |
| Maximum Gross Weight | 13,000 kg |
| Power | General Electric CT7-8A7 turboshaft engines |
| Max. Speed | 287 km/h (155 knots) |
| Range | 740 km (400 NM) |
| Crew | 2 Pilots, 1 Tactical Operator, 1 Sensor Operator |
| Year(s) procured | 2015 – 2018 |
| Quantity in CF | 12 as of June 2018 (28 upon complete delivery) |
| Location(s) | 12 Wing Shearwater, Nova Scotia 12 Wing Patricia Bay, British Columbia |
