Aircraft

Defence minister Brendan Nelson has spared the Royal Australian Navy’s Kaman Super Seasprite project from cancellation, but warns that the US company must meet stringent new performance targets if the SH-2(G)A fleet is to finally enter frontline service.

“In April 2006, I initiated a full examination of the Seasprite project following grounding of the aircraft due to concerns over the reliability of the automated flight control system,” says Nelson. “After detailed consideration of the issues involved, the government has decided to continue the Seasprite project, subject to satisfactory contract arrangements.”

© Australian DoD

Australia’s Department of Defence now expects its Super Seasprites to achieve initial operating capability around 2011, with full operating capability to be declared within a further two years, says Cdre Tim Barrett, Commander Australian Navy Aviation Group. The RAN’s 11 aircraft have already been delivered, but development problems mean that the project is already six years behind its original schedule.

Announcing the decision earlier today, Nelson said: “The return to flying will involve a series of controlled steps to assess the contractor’s performance, and to ensure the safety, performance and reliability of the Seasprite.” Barrett cautions: “If that performance is adequate, then the government will look closely at the options that are available to them.”

Kaman chief executive Paul Kuhn welcomed the announcement, noting: "We look forward to delivering this critical capability to the Royal Australian Navy."