General Dynamics Canada has awarded a contract to Kaman Aerospace Group to rebuild and modernise four SH-2G Super Seasprite helicopters for the Peruvian Navy.
As part of the deal, valued at more than $40m, Kaman will support the operation of the fifth aircraft for the Peruvian Navy.
Led by General Dynamics, which is under contract with the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC), the programme involves providing the Integrated Mission System for the aircraft.
Kaman president Gregory Steiner said: "This is an important milestone for Kaman as it will extend the length of the SH-2 programme and provide additional long-term service and support revenues.
"In fact, upon delivery of these five aircraft to Peru, the SH-2 flying fleet will have grown by more than 40% in less than three years."
The latest upgrade scheme follows the establishment of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the international contracting organisation of the CCC and the Peruvian Ministry’s National Defense unit.
In addition to expanding the scope of the SH-2 programme, the latest deal will help upgrade the potential of the Peruvian Navy by offering a new, improved and upgraded Super Seasprite aircraft.
Initially designed to comply with the requirements of the US Navy, the SH-2G Super Seasprite is an advanced maritime weapon system and a day/night/all-weather multi-mission helicopter.
The helicopter, which has accumulated more than 1.5 million flight hours, is claimed to boast highest power-to-weight ratio of any maritime aircraft, as well assuring a safe return-to-ship potential in single-engine flight conditions.
The multi-mission maritime weapon system can be used for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), over the horizon targeting, surveillance, troop transport, vertical replenishment, search and rescue, and utility missions.
The navies of New Zealand and Poland, in addition to the Egyptian Air Force, currently operate the SH-2G Super Seasprite.
General Dynamics Canada vice-president Brian Fava said: "The successful delivery of this upgraded aircraft will greatly enhance the Peruvian Navy’s ability to conduct modern maritime missions."