History of the CH-53E Super Stallion

The Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion is the largest helicopter in the western world. It is capable of lifting up to 36000 pounds and the CH-53E Super Stallion can hold 55 combat loaded troops, 24 litters, or 6 pallets of stores and ammunition in its cargo bay. As one of the few helicopters in the world configured with 3 gas turbine engines and in-flight refueling capability. This aircraft originally entered service in the early 1960’s during the Vietnam War as the CH-53A Sea Stallion, and is primarily used for logistics. With external cargo hooks and a large cargo bay, this helicopter is used to move artillery, armored personnel carriers, light tanks, and troops, both externally and internally, around the battlefield.

MH-53E Sea Dragon

The Navy variant of the aircraft is the MH-53E Sea Dragon. The Sea Dragon uses towed sensors and sophisticated avionics to locate and destroy anti-ship mines, keeping waterways clear for U. S. Navy and commercial ships.

Background of the CH-53E Super Stallion

The Marine Corps placed its initial order for the CH-53A Sea Stallion in August 1962. At that time, it was the largest helicopter design available in the U.S.

The CH-53E Super Stallion's primary mission is to move cargo and equipment. It has a secondary role of transferring troops ashore in an amphibious assault. CH-53Ds, with improved engines and increased power, are also used to recover downed aircraft, sweep mined areas and, if necessary, tow distressed ships.

The Sea Stallion's cargo/troop compartment measures 30 feet long by 7'/2 feet wide and 6'/2 feet high and has a rear door and loading ramp. To facilitate cargo handling, a remotely controlled winch is located at the forward end of the compartment. There is space for a jeep with trailer, a 105mm howitzer or a Hawk missile system. If passengers are carried, 38 combat-equipped troops or 24 litter patients can be accommodated.

Twin-turbine engines turn a single, six-bladed main rotor which has an automatic bladefolding system. Engine air separators have been incorporated on many models to reduce power loss in a sand/dust environment. An automatic flight control system lessens pilot fatigue on long missions. The CH-53 Super Stallion is capable of emergency water landing and takeoff.

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