Seahawk
The Seahawk is an integral part of the ship’s weapons and sensor systems. With its unique sensor suite and integrated weapons systems the helicopter extends the combat radius of the ship by finding, localising and attacking where appropriate, surface or submarine targets either independently or in conjunction with other forces.
A typical Seahawk mission involves up to three hours of low level operations over the sea, day or night, in all weather conditions, often recovering to a ship’s deck which pitches and rolls dramatically in heavy seas, and is generally wet with spray.
The Seahawk’s sensors include: search radar, magnetic anomaly detector and sonics processing for both active and passive sonobuoys. Both forward-looking infra-red and electronic support measures are also to be fitted. The Seahawk’s main weapon is the Mk46 anti-submarine torpedo.
AS 350B Squirrel
Replaced by the more capable S70B Seahawk aborad the frigates, the Squirrel has ceased dedicated embarked operations and is now used in the role of lead in helicopter training.
The training role includes the conversion of all RAN pilots to rotary wing flying, preparation of pilots for operational flying and flying observers and aircrewman for their basic utility training. The aircraft also provides training support for ship’s flight deck teams.
A109E Agusta Power
The Agusta A109E Power helicopters joined 723 Squadron in 2007 on lease from Raytheon Australia and they are used for multi engine training for pilots moving onto other aircraft such as the Seahawk. The Power is also utilised for public relations support and recruiting activities. The squadron currently operates three A109E Powers.
Multi Role Helicopter (MRH)
The Multi Role Helicopter (MRH) has begun to replace the Navy’s Sea Kings fleets with increased and improved capability, ability and capacity to meet emerging requirements. 46 MRH-90 aircraft will be acquired for Navy and Army.The first two aircraft were accepted into service in Brisbane on 18 December 2007.
The MRH-90 capability has more built-in safety features that meet or exceed today’s requirements and utilise the latest technology including composite materials and fly-by-wire systems that will provide more efficient maintenance. When completed, the MRH-90 will be available for two airmobile squadrons, one special operations support squadron, and one maritime support helicopter squadron able to provide airmobile and maritime support capability to the ADF from land bases as well as HMAS Manoora and HMAS Kanimbla.