Ukrainian corvette Hetman Ivan Mazepa successfully tests helicopter operations with SH-60 Seahawk.

According to information published by MIlitarnyi on October 16, 2024, the Ukrainian Navy has successfully conducted trials involving the use of an aviation detachment on its newly constructed corvette, Hetman Ivan Mazepa (F211).
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Turkish built Ada-class corvette Hetman Ivan Mazepa with SH-60 Seahawk. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)

The trials, showcased in a video released by Ukraine’s Naval Forces, featured the landing of a Turkish Navy SH-60 Seahawk helicopter on the corvette’s deck.

The SH-60 Seahawk, a multipurpose naval helicopter based on the UH-60 Black Hawk, is capable of performing various roles such as search and rescue and anti-submarine warfare. Although Ukraine does not currently operate Seahawk helicopters, the demonstration highlights the corvette’s capability to handle such aircraft. The Seahawk’s compatibility with Ada-class corvettes, designed to house helicopters both on deck and in an internal hangar, aligns with the vessel’s advanced operational design.

Currently, Ukraine’s naval forces rely on different platforms. Soviet-era Ka-27 helicopters have served as Ukraine's main shipborne aircraft, though their operational status remains uncertain. Ukraine also received several Sea King helicopters for its naval aviation from international allies, starting in late 2022. These helicopters have been used primarily for search and rescue, medical evacuation, and military transport, but it remains unclear whether they can be accommodated within the hangar of the Hetman Ivan Mazepa.

Analysis

Technically, the corvette is equipped to accommodate a variety of aircraft, despite Ukraine currently lacking SH-60 Seahawks in its inventory. The Seahawk, derived from the UH-60 Black Hawk, brings diverse capabilities such as anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and cargo transport. This versatility is in line with the multi-role nature of the Hetman Ivan Mazepa, designed to perform a range of missions from anti-air and anti-submarine warfare to electronic warfare.

In addition to aviation capabilities, the Hetman Ivan Mazepa boasts a suite of advanced systems. It is equipped with the Leonardo Super Rapid 76mm gun for surface combat, Aselsan’s Korkut 35mm air-defense systems, and potential missile defense through systems like the MICA VL. This blend of weaponry and sensors, including 3D radar systems like the SMART-S Mk2, enhances the ship’s ability to detect and engage air and sea threats at various ranges.

The trials mark significant progress in developing Ukraine's naval capabilities, which are particularly focused on securing coastal waters and conducting multipurpose operations in the Black Sea.