The German Navy is retiring its fleet of Sea Lynx naval helicopters after four decades of service — and has marked the switch by commissioning an eye-catching design.
In recognition of more than 120,000 flight hours and worldwide deployments completed by the platform, Naval Air Wing 5 has bid farewell to its long-serving companion with a specially painted aircraft, which toured various military airfields in Germany.
The German Navy took delivery of its first NH-90 Sea Tiger in December last year; all the new platforms are scheduled to be delivered by 2030 and will operate out of Naval Air Wing 5 in Nordholz, Lower Saxony.
New capabilities on the Sea Tiger include a new electro-optical system, a dipping sonar, sonobuoys, EuroTorp MU90 lightweight torpedoes and MBDA Marte ER anti-ship missiles.
The new helicopters will enhance the German Navy’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and reconnaissance capabilities, replacing its ageing Mk88A Sea Lynx fleet, which first entered service in 1981.
As per a press statement: “Since 1981, the Sea Lynx Mk88A has been a reliable all-rounder for naval aviation. Whether anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, or reconnaissance, it has seen action worldwide for over four generations.”
It added: “The introduction of the NH-90 MRFH Sea Tiger represents a significant leap forward for maritime warfare. The new helicopter will support frigate crews in detecting threats earlier, gaining a more precise situational awareness, and responding accordingly.
With this acquisition, the Navy receives a modern multi-role frigate helicopter (MRFH) for combating threats above and below water. High-performance avionics, high-precision sensors, and a broad weapons spectrum enable state-of-the-art maritime warfare.”
The force already operates 18 NH90 Sea Lion naval transport helicopters, the last of which was delivered in 2023. They are used for maritime search and rescue (MSAR) missions and are also embarked onboard its 702-class replenishment ships.
- You can read more details on the German Navy website
