SH-60B/F Helicopter

The search store system of SH-60 helicopters is less complex than that of the P-3 and S-3 aircrafts, but it serves the same purpose. The SH-60 has all weather capabilities. The SH-60B is designed to operate off frigates, destroyers, and cruisers. Its primary missions are detection, classification, localization, and interdiction of surface ships and submarines. Its secondary missions include communications relay, vertical replenishment, search and rescue (SAR), medevac, and fleet support. The SH-60F is designed to replace the SH-3, and it operates off aircraft carriers. The primary mission is close-in ASW protection for the carrier battle group, and secondary missions include SAR and plane guard. Both the SH-60B and SH-60F are equipped with 25 sonobuoy launch tubes, BRU-14/A bomb racks (2 on the SH-60B and 3 on the SH-60F) for carriage of torpedoes. The SH-60F also has air-to-surface missile capabilities. The various models of the SH-60 helicopter (B, F) have different configurations and capabilities.

Figure 15-34.-S-3 bomb bay configurations.

Figure 15-35.-Wing station configuration.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Recognize safety precautions to follow when handling aircraft weapons systems.

The safety precautions you should follow when dealing with aircraft systems, and their maintenance are outlined in various publications. The repetition of safety precautions in the manuals makes sure they are widely distributed and read. A few of the safety precautions applicable to the aircraft discussed in this chapter are listed below. Do not open or close the bomb bay doors when

personnel or equipment are in the vicinity of the bomb bay. Also, do not enter the bomb bay until the door safety pin is installed. Beware of APU noise. It can cause permanent

ear damage to the unprotected ear. Wear ear protection

devices when working in the vicinity of an operating APU. Provide adequate interphone communications

between personnel inside and outside the aircraft to ensure safety between personnel and to compensate for the size of the aircraft.

Before you apply external power to the aircraft, make sure that personnel are not performing maintenance on electrical or electronic systems.

Make sure that personnel working with or near high voltage are familiar with modern methods of resuscitation.

Observe the aircraft external danger areas shown in the particular loading manual.

Be extremely careful near breakaway suspension bands. They can release with enough force to cause serious injury.