Sikorsky NSH-60 Seahawk

The Sikorsky NSH‑60 Seahawk is a navalized variant of the UH‑60 Black Hawk developed by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation to meet the United States Navy and Coast Guard’s demand for a versatile ship‑borne helicopter. First flown in 1979 and entering service in 1984, the Seahawk built on the proven Black Hawk airframe but incorporated extensive corrosion‑resistant modifications, reinforced landing gear, and a watertight hull to survive the harsh maritime environment. Powered by twin General Electric T700‑GE‑701C turboshaft engines, it delivers up to 1,890 shaft horsepower, allowing a maximum speed of 180 knots and a range exceeding 350 nautical miles. Key features include a retractable out‑board folding rotor system for storage aboard ships, a nose‑mounted radar, a forward‑looking infrared sensor, and a suite of mission‑specific equipment such as sonar buoys, magnetic anomaly detectors, and external weapons pylons. The Seahawk’s adaptability supports anti‑submarine warfare, surface surveillance, combat search‑and‑rescue, and vertical replenishment missions. Its reliability and performance have made it a cornerstone of naval aviation, influencing the design of subsequent maritime helicopters and cementing Sikorsky’s reputation as a leader in amphibious rotorcraft technology. It remains in production today.