"We gotta ditch" NZ Navy...Hold my beer... The Good Ship Waikato
The Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Waikato (F55) with a U.S. Navy Sikorsky SH-3H helicopter (of HS-287) on board. On 10 April 1978, while engaged in exercise RIMPAC 1978 a United States Navy Sea King helicopter operating off the Canadian tanker HMCS Provider (AOR 508) made a ‘mayday’ call because of a low fuel state. Despite being tasked with remaining with the main body, Waikato proceeded at best speed in the direction of the distressed helicopter. Contact with the aircraft was made and the pilot Lieutenant Commander James Bateman was informed that Waikato was prepared to accept it onboard if he so wished. The pilot opted to attempt to land-on, despite the less than calm sea conditions and the relatively small flight deck for the big helicopter. His only other option was to ditch in the sea, which would almost certainly have led to loss of life. In a skilful piece of flying the helicopter landed on board with less than 30 seconds fuel remaining. The Commanding Officer of HMNZS Waikato, Ian Bradley, was cautioned by the Naval Staff for his actions in putting the ship at risk from a serious accident. For saving the crew and the aircraft the ship was given an award from the U.S. Navy. Date 10 April 1978
