Use of Seaplanes and Integration within a Sea Base

A study to investigate the utility of seaplanes to support an offshore military sea base has been undertaken by the CISD. The potential use and importance of seaplanes for future sea-based military missions are discussed. The research outlines the history of seaplane development, their different modes of operation and associated enabling technologies. Parametric data collected on seaplanes has been populated into a database, presented, and analyzed, leading to definition of initial seaplane sizing requirements. Current technology boundaries and technical issues that need further research, including those related to integrating seaplanes within a Sea Base environment have also been identified. Issues such as rough water operations, mooring and beaching have been considered, along with new methods to take advantage of existing technology to operate in high sea states. Potential seaplane design concepts are presented, with recommendations for investment in particular seaplane technologies, such as lightweight materials, spray reduction designs, and novel landing/beaching gear.