Sikorsky MH-60 Jayhawk
Medium-range recovery helicopter / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dear Wikiwand AI, let's keep it short by simply answering these key questions:
Can you list the top facts and stats about Sikorsky MH-60 Jayhawk?
Summarize this article for a 10 year old
The Sikorsky MH-60T Jayhawk is a multi-mission, twin-engine, medium-range helicopter operated by the United States Coast Guard for search and rescue, law enforcement, military readiness and marine environmental protection missions. It was originally designated HH-60J before being upgraded and redesignated in 2007.[3]
HH-60J / MH-60T Jayhawk | |
---|---|
A HH-60J Jayhawk from CG Air Station Astoria | |
Role | Medium-range recovery helicopter[1] |
Manufacturer | Sikorsky Aircraft |
First flight | 8 August 1989 |
Status | In service |
Primary user | United States Coast Guard |
Produced | 1990–1996 |
Number built | 42 (+ 6 conversions)[2] |
Developed from | Sikorsky SH-60 Seahawk |
Chosen to replace the HH-3F Pelican, the MH-60T is a member of the Sikorsky S-70 family of helicopters and is based on the United States Navy's SH-60 Seahawk helicopter.[1] Development began in September 1986, first flight was achieved on 8 August 1989, and the first HH-60J entered USCG service in June 1990. Production ended in 1996 after 42 helicopters were produced; six retired SH-60F Seahawks were also remanufactured to MH-60T specifications beginning in 2010.[2][4][5]
In 2017, the USCG established a Service Life Extension Program (SLEP) to extend the service life of its current MH-60T fleet by rebuilding the aircraft with replacement aircraft hulls sourced from newly manufactured hulls from Lockheed Martin or conversion of retired US Navy aircraft. In 2023, the USCG obtained approval to begin acquisition of 12 additional MH-60T to replace some MH-65 aircraft. The USCG plans to eventually transition to an all MH-60T fleet.[6]