UH-2A Seasprite

The UH‑2A Seasprite was the first production version of Kaman Corporation’s light naval helicopter, designed to replace the aging Sikorsky H‑19s in the United States Navy during the early 1950s. First flown on 1 March 1954, the aircraft featured Kaman’s distinctive intermeshing‑rotor (synchropter) system, which eliminated the need for a tail rotor and provided exceptional lift, stability and a compact footprint for shipboard operations. Powered by a single Lycoming T53‑7 turboshaft delivering roughly 860 shaft horsepower, the UH‑2A could carry a crew of two plus up to six passengers or a modest cargo load, and it was equipped with a modest armament suite including machine guns and rockets for anti‑submarine and utility missions. Its low‑profile design and ability to operate from the decks of destroyers, frigates and amphibious vessels made it a versatile asset for reconnaissance, search‑and‑rescue, and personnel transport. Although production ceased after only 156 units, the Seasprite’s reliable rotor technology influenced later Kaman models such as the SH‑2G Super Seasprite, and it demonstrated the viability of twin‑rotor helicopters in naval aviation, leaving a lasting imprint on rotorcraft development.

Kaman Corporation

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