Gdynia 2026-01-19

Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite. 2026

In May 2018, the Polish Army announced that the retirement of eight Kaman SH-2G helicopters was approaching. However, no estimated date was given. The announcement stated that “Kaman SH-2G carrier-based anti-submarine warfare helicopters will be retired in the coming years due to a lack of continued support from the manufacturer.” This information was confirmed on May 10, 2018, by Deputy Minister of National Defense Wojciech Skurkiewicz.

American Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite carrier-based helicopters were introduced to the Polish Army in 2003, along with two guided missile frigates from surplus equipment from the US Navy. The Polish Army operated four helicopters of this type. In 2018, the Deputy Ministers of Defense and Interior presented information to the Sejm (lower house of parliament) regarding the modernization of the Polish Air Force. It was stated that the most challenging situation was maintaining the combat capabilities of the SH-2G helicopters, which, despite reaching their target operational limit of 50%, would have to be retired due to a lack of further support from the manufacturer. The Ministry of National Defense planned to replace these helicopters with four new helicopters acquired under the then-current procedure. Ultimately, four Leonardo AW101 “Merlin” helicopters were ordered, configured for ASW/CSAR (anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue), from the Italian manufacturer Leonardo. The PZL-Świdnik-Leonardo plant is involved in production. However, it should be noted that the new AW101 helicopters cannot be based on frigates.

The end of service of the Kaman SH-2G carrier-based helicopters in the Polish Navy: The official end of service occurred in November 2025. All Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite helicopters completed their final takeoffs and landings on November 6–7, 2025, both from frigates and at Gdynia Babie Doły Airport. After more than 20 years of service, these helicopters have been formally retired, marking the end of their operational service with the Polish Armed Forces. Negotiations regarding their future are currently underway.

Currently (2026) the Polish Navy does not have any on-board helicopters, and the program, including the “Kondor” program, aimed at acquiring a new type of maritime helicopter, is still ongoing. 

Written by Karol Placha Hetman