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CH-53D, US Marines (w/probe)
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Scale 1:45 Length (with probe) 21.5" Rotor 19.3"
Photography by Action Asia Photo |
The CH-53D Sea Stallion was an improved version of the CH-53A having stronger engines and more power. Designed and developed specifically for the Marine Corps by Sikorsky Aircraft Division of United Technologies, the helicopter was used to transport supplies, equipment and personnel from ship to shore during amphibious assault operations. It could also recover downed aircraft, sweep mined areas and - if necessary - tow distressed ships. First flying in October 1964, the CH-53 became operational in November of 1966 and was used extensively by the Marines during the Vietnam War where it could transport up to 37 Marines or handle 24 litter patients and four attendants. Capable of lifting 8,000 pounds internally or externally under normal conditions, it can lift an additional 4,000 pounds in certain situations. Loading and unloading is speeded up through the use of a rear ramp and roll-on/roll-off facilities. The 30 ft long cargo compartment has space for a jeep with trailer, a 105mm howitzer or a Hawk missile system. External loads can be carried in slings or nets. Twin General Electric T64-GE-413 turbo-shaft engines with 3,925 shaft horsepower each turn a single, six-bladed main rotor which has an automatic blade folding system. Engine air separators were incorporated on many models to reduce power loss in a sand/dust environment. In Operation Desert Storm the helicopter performed with distinction. An automatic flight control system lessened pilot fatigue on long missions. Other improvements to the aircraft were an electrometric rotor head, external range extension fuel tanks, crashworthy fuel cells, ARC-182 radios, and defensive electronic countermeasure equipment. The CH-53D was shipboard compatible and capable of operation in adverse weather conditions both day and night . The CH-53 is capable of emergency water landing and takeoff. Also, if needed, it could mount two .50-caliber machine guns. The Sea Stallion was the heavy lift helicopter for the Marine Corps until 1981 when the more powerful three-engined CH-53E Super Stallion joined the H-53 family. Then the CH-53D began filling a role in the Marine Corps' medium lift helicopter fleet until all were eventually phased out by 1997. Crew:
Two pilots and one air crew
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