Canadian military receives first two CH-148 helos

OTTAWA, June 22 (UPI) -- Canada reports it has officially received six CH-148 Cyclone helicopters from Sikorsky Aircraft, enabling it to begin retiring some of its aging Sea Kings fleet.

The new helicopters are now being used for training and testing but in their final configuration will perform a full range of anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, search and rescue and utility missions.

Canada is due to receive a total of 28 of the aircraft, which are specifically designed for the Canadian military.

"Last year our government committed to delivering the first CH-148 Cyclone maritime helicopters, and I am pleased to be here to see them now safely in the hands of the Canadian Armed Forces," said Diane Finley, Minister of Public Works and Government Services. "This marks an important milestone in our Maritime Helicopter Project and demonstrates our commitment to equipping our men and women in uniform with state-of-the-art helicopters."

The CH-148 is a twin-engine maritime aircraft with a maximum speed of 165 knots and a service ceiling of about 15,000 feet.

The Canadian military said the first two Sea Kings will be retired later this year.