Description
A multi-purpose helicopter.

Features
The H-3 is a twin engine, all-weather helicopter. The SH-3H model is used by the Navy Reserves to detect, classify, track and destroy enemy submarines. It also provides logistical support and a search and rescue capability. The UH-3H model is utility configured for logistical support and search and rescue missions. The VH-3D model supports the Executive Transport Mission.

Background
The first version of this workhorse helicopter was flown more than 40 years ago. The Sea King has been replaced by the SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopters as the anti-submarine warfare helicopter. The transition was completed in the mid-1990s. The remaining Sea King helicopters have been configured for logistical support and search and rescue missions. Current plans are to phase out the H-3 by 2009.

General Characteristics

Primary Function: VH-3D (HC-2) ? Executive Transport
UH-3H (HC-85/PMRF/VC-8) ? Utility and Torpedo recovery
SH-3H (HS-75) ? Carrier-based anti-submarine warfare
UH-3H (HC-2/Naval Air Stations) ? Logistics/Search & Rescue

Contractor: Sikorsky Aircraft Division of United Technologies, Stratford, CT.
Date Deployed: First flight, March 1959; Operational, June 1961.
Unit Cost: $6.4 million.
Propulsion: Two General Electric T58-GE-402 turboshaft engines.
Length: 73 feet (21.9 meters); Fuselage length: 54 feet, 9 inches (16.5 meters).
Height: 17 feet (5.1 meters).
Weight: 11,865 lbs. (5,339 kg) empty; Maximum takeoff weight is 21,000 pounds (9,450 kg).
Airspeed: 120 kts (138 miles per hour(217.6 km)).
Ceiling: 14,700 feet (4,410 meters).
Range: 542 nautical miles (623.3 statute miles, 997 km.).
Crew: Four.