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Standard Model A: #444
Scale 1:48  Length (without rotors) 18"   Rotor 15.5"

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

Standard Model B: #700
Scale 1:48  Length (without rotors) 18"   Rotor 15.5"

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Global Security: SH-3 Sea King Page

In 1957, the US Navy needed a very high performance helicopter with advanced technology to replace the outdated S-58. Sikorsky was again approached and submitted plans for a large twin-turbine aircraft with a boat-type hull and retractable landing gear for amphibious operations. The aircraft had all-weather capability, good weapons load capability and four hours endurance. The project was designated S-61 and the HSS-2 prototype first flew in March 1959. The prototype was followed by seven pre-production aircraft which successfully completed service trials in 1960.

Delivery of the first ten S-61B/HSS-2to the US Navy started in September 1961. The helicopters were later re-designated SH-3A Sea King. For stowage on board ship, the main rotor was of the articulated type with five interchangeable blades which could be folded automatically by hydraulic actuators - as could be the tail boom . In all there were 255 SH-3As built while ten more - designated VH-3A - were assigned to the special American Presidential Department for personnel transport. Nine of the SH-3As were transformed into RH-3As with minesweeping equipment and three were used by the USAF for missile site support and drone recovery. Another 12 SH-3As were converted into the HH-3A for battlefield rescue work and were fitted with two Emerson TAT-102 turrets mounted at the rear of the two sponsons and an in-flight re-fuelling probe.

The Sea King, in various versions, is flown by the following service arms: Australian Navy, Brazilian Navy, Danish Air Force,  Egyptian Navy, German Navy, Italian Navy, Iranian Navy, Japanese Navy, Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal Navy, Spanish Navy, US Navy and Qatar. In 1966, the SH-3A was superseded by the SH-3D which has a 1419shp T58-GE-10 turbine and new electronics. The helicopter is used for a variety of missions including ASW.  A derivative of the Sea King was developed into a new tactical attack helicopter called the Commando.

Length:   73 ft
Rotor:     62 ft diameter