The CH-148 Cyclone will replace the CH-124 Sea King as Canada’s main ship-borne maritime helicopter. This state-of-the-art aircraft will fill the Canadian Forces’ operational demands well into the 21st century.
The Cyclone will conduct Surface and Subsurface Surveillance and Control, utility and search and rescue missions. It will also provide tactical transport for national and international security efforts. This twin-engine helicopter is compatible with the latest high-tech naval frigates and includes several new safety features. Its aluminum and composite airframe is built with lightning-strike and high-intensity radio frequency pulse protection. The aircraft also incorporates flaw tolerance and engine burst containment.
The Cyclone has a day-and-night flight capability, and can fly in most weather conditions in temperatures ranging from -51°C to +49°C. With a maximum cruise speed of 250 km/h, the CH-148 is approximately 10% faster than a Sea King. The Cyclone can also fly 450 km without refuelling.
