AW159 Wildcat Light Maritime Helicopter
The AW159 Wildcat operates from frigate and corvette decks too small for a medium naval helicopter, carrying an active-array maritime radar, EO/IR, and light anti-surface weapons. Its harpoon deck-lock and folding tail make it practical for navies with compact flight decks.
Key Features
- AESA maritime surveillance radar
- Harpoon deck-lock for small-deck recovery
- Folding main rotor and tail for hangar stowage
- Light anti-surface missile capability
Mission Use Cases
- Maritime surveillance and constabulary patrol
- Anti-surface warfare from small decks
- Utility and vertical replenishment
- Maritime search and rescue support
Product Overview
The AW159 Wildcat operates from frigate and corvette decks too small for a medium naval helicopter, carrying an active-array maritime radar, EO/IR, and light anti-surface weapons. Its harpoon deck-lock and folding tail make it practical for navies with compact flight decks.
Rotary-Wing Platform Comparison
Published planning figures across the utility, attack, heavy-lift, maritime, and light-utility rotary-wing platforms in the catalog.
| Specification | UH-60M Utility | AH-64E Attack | CH-47F Heavy lift | MH-60R Maritime |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Role & Crew | ||||
| Primary role | Air assault and utility lift | Armed reconnaissance and attack | Heavy-lift cargo and troop movement | Anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare |
| Crew | 2 pilots + 2 crew | 2 (pilot / CPG) | 3 (2 pilots + flight engineer) | 3–4 |
| Passengers | Up to 11 troops | None | Up to 33 troops | Mission crew / limited |
| Powerplant | ||||
| Engines | 2 × T700-GE-701D | 2 × T700-GE-701D | 2 × T55-GA-714A | 2 × T700-GE-401C |
| Power (each) | 1,994 shp | 1,994 shp | 4,777 shp | 1,900 shp |
| Weights & Lift | ||||
| Max gross weight | 22,000 lb | 23,000 lb | 50,000 lb | 23,500 lb |
| External lift | 9,000 lb single hook | Not applicable | 26,000 lb center hook | 6,000 lb cargo hook |
| Rescue hoist | Optional 600 lb | Not fitted | Optional 600 lb | Standard 600 lb |
| Performance | ||||
| Cruise speed | ≈ 152 kt | ≈ 150 kt | ≈ 160 kt | ≈ 145 kt |
| Range (internal fuel) | ≈ 240–280 nm | ≈ 260 nm | ≈ 400 nm | ≈ 450 nm |
| Service ceiling | 19,000 ft | 20,000 ft | 18,500 ft | 12,000 ft |
Figures are drawn from publicly released manufacturer and service data and are provided for comparison and planning reference only, not for flight planning.
Product Line & Options
AW159 Wildcat with configurable mission and support options.
- Rescue hoist and SAR fit
- Door-mounted machine gun
- Dipping sonar or sonobuoy processor
- Shipboard support and spares package
Product Specs
Pricing & Quotation
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