Posted on 08/12/2014 9:58:43 PM PDT by sukhoi-30mki
To strengthen the anti-submarine capability of the People's Liberation Army Navy, Z-18F helicopters will likely serve on the Liaoning, the nation's first aircraft carrier and the Type 071 Yuzhao-class amphibious transport docks according to a report by Hangzhou-based Qianjiang Evening News published Aug. 12.
The paper cited a Chinese military website which stated that the Z-18F is likely a modified version of the Z-8F helicopter designed based on the French-built SA 321 Super Frelon. By looking at photos posted online, Li Xiaojian, a Chinese military expert told the paper that the Z-18F is probably equipped with four eight-tube sonobuoy launchers, allowing the helicopter to carry 32 sonobuoys. A US SH-60 Seahawk, in comparison, is only able to carry 25 sonobuoys, according to Li.
Li also stated that the Z-18F is likely able to carry four 324 mm torpedos simultaneously with the two external stores support system it has. Most anti-submarine helicopters designed in Western nations such as the SH-60, the NH-90 and the Super Lynx are only able to carry two torpedos at the same time. Li said, however, that Westland's EH-101 is a better and more advanced anti-submarine platform than the Z-18F.
As the Z-18F helicopter is bulky, weighing 13 tonnes, Li said that none of the destroyers or frigates the PLA Navy currently has in its possession are capable of carrying it, therefore, only large vessels like the Liaoning and the Type 071 Yuzhao-class amphibious transport dock can carry it.
Li said that there is also another version of the Z-18 helicopter called the Z-18J which is being designed as an early warning aircraft.
References:
Li Xiaojian 李小健
Gee, this is great ... as long as the sub in within miles of the interceptor ... but what about the nuke subs that are a half world away.
Remote controlled limpets in Chinese choke points could be top secret aggressors.. by Japanese tacticians..
Henry Limpets?
mobile limpets
Henry Limpet was mobile.
He’s incredible.
Another target for the IDAS missile.
With that missile ASW tactics will change again. Helicopters are now the prey.
he’s no match for henry sugar.
read roald dahl’s “the wonderful story of henry sugar.”
That’s Mr., to you.
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