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Scale 1:60   Length (with probe) 19"  Rotor 15.8"

Photography by Action Asia Photo
© 2002-8 Action Asia Photo - All Rights Reserved
www.actionasiaphoto.com

The Sikorsky-built CH-53E is the US Marine Corps' heavy lift helicopter designed for the transportation of material and supplies. It is carried routinely aboard amphibious assault ships to support amphibious assaults.

The helicopter is capable of lifting 16 tons at sea level, transporting the load 50 nautical miles and returning. A typical load would be a 16,000 pound M198 howitzer or a 26,000 pound Light Armored Vehicle. It can also retrieve downed aircraft including another CH-53E. The helicopter is equipped with a refueling probe, thereby giving it indefinite range.

Introduced in June 1981, the CH-53E is a follow-on to its predecessor - the twin engine CH-53D. Improvements include the addition of a third engine for greater lift; a dual point cargo hook system; improved main rotor blades; and composite tail rotor blades. A dual digital automatic flight control system and engine anti-ice system give the aircraft an all-weather capability.

The helicopter seats 37 passengers in its normal configuration and has provisions to carry 55 passengers using centerline seats. With the dual point hook system, it can carry external loads at increased airspeeds due to the stability so achieved.

Crew:         Three
Fuselage:   73 ft
Rotor:        79 ft
Length:      99 ft (Overall)
Engines:     3 GE T64 turbo-shafts, 4380hp each
Load:          70,000 lbs internal; external 73,500 lbs
Speed:        172 mph
Range:        620 miles - indefinite with aerial refueling
Armament:  Two XM-218 .50 caliber machineguns

Related Links
Global Security: H-53's Page