Carrier anti-submarine work called for a variant distinct from the escort-based SH-60B. Development began in March 1985 while the B model was entering operational deployment. A 1986 order covered seven aircraft, including two prototypes, and the first SH-60F flew on 19 March 1987. The Ocean Hawk combined an improved airframe and avionics with AQS-13F dipping sonar, a six-tube sonobuoy launcher, and Mark 46, Mark 50, or Mark 54 torpedoes. It could also carry machine guns. Its crew consisted of a pilot, co-pilot, tactical sensor operator, and acoustic sensor operator. The SH-60B had a pilot, an airborne tactical officer who also acted as co-pilot, and an aviation warfare systems operator who was usually enlisted. The four-person F crew placed more self-contained acoustic capability and specialist personnel aboard the carrier helicopter.
Notable Point · 18:50-21:09
SH-60F Ocean Hawk carrier ASW fit
The carrier-based SH-60F Ocean Hawk added dipping sonar, a compact sonobuoy launcher, torpedoes, and a larger sensor crew to the Seahawk family.