In the US, only the Marines and the Navy uses the Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion to transport their troops. However, since this is FSX it would be cool to make a version for the United States Army 1st Cavalry Division too. With a name like Super Stallion, it only fitting that the 1st Cav gets to ride this beast! By Johnny Rosario.
CH-53K King Stallion | |
---|---|
A CH-53K during a test flight in West Palm Beach | |
Role | Heavy-lift cargohelicopter |
National origin | United States |
Manufacturer | Sikorsky Aircraft |
First flight | 27 October 2015 |
Introduction | planned for 2018[1] |
Status | In production |
Primary user | United States Marine Corps |
Program cost | US$25.335 billion (FY2015)[2] |
Unit cost | US$87.1 million (Est. flyaway cost)[3][2] US$122M(LRIP 1 excl. R&D)[3][2] US$131M(LRIP 1 incl. R&D costs)[4] |
Developed from | Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion |
The Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion is a large, heavy-liftcargo helicopter currently being developed by Sikorsky Aircraft for the United States Marine Corps (USMC). The design features three 7,500 shp (5,590 kW) engines, new composite rotor blades, and a wider aircraft cabin than previous CH-53 variants. It will be the largest and heaviest helicopter in the U.S. military. The USMC plans to receive 200 helicopters at a total cost of $25 billion. Ground Test Vehicle (GTV) testing started in April 2014; flight testing began with the maiden flight on 27 October 2015. In May 2018 the first CH-53K was delivered to the Marine Corps.
- 1Development
- 3Operational history
Development[edit]
H-53 background[edit]
The CH-53 was the product of the US Marine Corps' 'Heavy Helicopter Experimental' (HH(X)) competition begun in 1962. Sikorsky's S-65 was selected over Boeing Vertol's modified CH-47 Chinook version. The prototype YCH-53A first flew on 14 October 1964.[5] The helicopter was designated 'CH-53A Sea Stallion' and delivery of production helicopters began in 1966.[6] The CH-53A is equipped with two of the T64-GE-6 turboshaft engine and has a maximum gross weight of 46,000 lb (20,865 kg).
Variants of the original CH-53A Sea Stallion include the RH-53A/D, HH-53B/C, CH-53D, CH-53G, and MH-53H/J/M. The RH-53A and RH-53D were used by the United States Navy for minesweeping. The CH-53D included a more powerful version of the General Electric T64 engine, used in all H-53 variants, and external fuel tanks.[5] The US Air Force's HH-53B/C 'Super Jolly Green Giant' were for special operations and combat rescue. The Air Force's MH-53H/J/M Pave Low helicopters were the last of the twin engined H-53s and were equipped with extensive avionics upgrades for all weather operation.[5]
In October 1967, the U.S. Marine Corps issued a requirement for a helicopter with a lifting capacity 1.8 times that of the CH-53D that could fit on amphibious assault ships. Before this Sikorsky had been working on an enhancement to the CH-53D, under the company designation 'S-80', featuring a third turboshaft engine and a more powerful rotor system. Sikorsky proposed the S-80 design to the Marines in 1968. The Marines considered this a good, quick solution, and funded development of a testbed helicopter.[7] Changes on the CH-53E also included a stronger transmission and a fuselage stretched 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 m). The main rotor blades were changed to a titanium-fiberglasscomposite.[7] A new automatic flight control system was added. The tail configuration was also changed to a larger vertical tail with the tail rotor tilted slightly to provide some lift in hover.[8]
In 1974, the initial YCH-53E first flew.[8] Following successful testing the initial production contract was awarded in 1978, and service introduction followed in February 1981.[7] The US Navy acquired the CH-53E in small numbers for shipboard resupply. The Marines and Navy acquired a total of 177.[7] For the airborne mine countermeasures role, the Navy later ordered a CH-53E version designated 'MH-53E Sea Dragon' with enlarged sponsons and fuel tanks for greater fuel storage.[7] The MH-53E began to be used by the Navy in 1986.[8] The Navy obtained 46 Sea Dragons.[7]
CH-53K[edit]
CH-53K King Stallion prototype during the roll out ceremony
The US Marine Corps had been planning to upgrade most of its CH-53Es to keep them in service, but this plan stalled. Sikorsky then proposed a new version, originally the 'CH-53X', and in April 2006 the USMC signed a contract for 156 aircraft as the 'CH-53K'[9][10][11] valued at $18.8 billion with deliveries to be completed by 2021.[12] The Marines were planning to start retiring CH-53Es in 2009 and needed new helicopters very quickly as some aircraft would start hitting their structural life limits in 2011–12.[12] Flight testing of the CH-53K was expected to begin in 2011.[13]
The CH-53K is a general redesign of the CH-53E. The main improvements are new engines and cockpit layout. The CH-53K will have over twice the lift capacity and radius of action of the CH-53E, and a wider cargo hold to allow it to carry a Humvee internally. The CH-53K will feature new stubby composite sponsons to cut overall width, giving the helicopter a narrower footprint for shipboard operations.[13] It will also be equipped with a new composite rotor blade system, with technology similar to that currently found on the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. The CH-53K will use the General Electric GE38-1B engine.[14] This engine beat out the Pratt and Whitney Canada PW150 and a derivative of the Rolls-Royce AE 1107C-Liberty used on the V-22 Osprey.[15]
Sikorsky has announced its major subcontractors: Aurora Flight Sciences (main rotor pylon),[16]Exelis Aerostructures (tail rotor pylon and sponsons),[16]GKN Aerospace (aft transition),[16] Onboard Systems International (external cargo hook system),[17]Rockwell Collins (avionics management system),[18]Sanmina-SCI Corporation (Intercommunications System), and Spirit AeroSystems (cockpit and cabin).[16]
In August 2007, the USMC increased its order of CH-53Ks from 156 to 227.[19] In 2007, first flight was planned for November 2011 with initial operating capability (IOC) by 2015.[20] When the CH-53K enters service, it will serve as the USMC's heavy lift helicopter with the MV-22 (medium lift) and UH-1Y (light lift).[21]RAND released a report in 2007 on seabasing that suggested a higher ratio of CH-53Ks to MV-22s would reduce deployment times from naval ships.[22][23]
In 2008, design work was well underway. Progress was being made in weight reduction efforts to meet operational requirements. Increases in engine performance and rotor blade improvements are options to help meet requirements if needed. The rotor mast tilt was decreased and components shifted to ensure the center of gravity does not shift too far rearward as fuel is burned.[24] The design requirements were 'frozen' in 2009–10 and not changed since.[25]
On 22 January 2010, Sikorsky Aircraft opened a $20 million Precision Components Technology Center in Stratford, Connecticut, which will focus on production of the CH-53K. This facility will produce the rotating and stationary swashplates, main and tail rotor hubs, and main rotor sleeves among other parts.[26] On 3 August 2010, the CH-53K passed Critical Design Review (CDR), and the program is ready for test production.[27][28] However, the IOC fielding date was deferred to 2018.[29] Sikorsky had proposed to build four pre-production aircraft for operational evaluations.[30]
A CH-53K in a hover at Sikorsky Aircraft
On 4 December 2012, Sikorsky delivered the first CH-53K, a Ground Test Vehicle (GTV) airframe. It was put through many hours of powered ground checks. Preliminary tests included calibrating the aircraft's fuel system and attaching measuring devices at various test locations on the airframe to record temperature, aerodynamic loads, pressure, and vibrations. Two additional static ground test articles underwent structural testing at the company's main manufacturing plant in Stratford, Connecticut.[31]
In January 2013, the program was estimated to cost US$23.17 billion after procurement of the planned 200 CH-53K helicopters.[2] In April 2013, the U.S. Navy program manager commented that development of the CH-53K was 'proceeding so well' that it might become operational ahead of schedule.[32] Flight testing is planned for 2015 having been delayed for more than a year by faulty components.[2]
On 31 May 2013, the Navy awarded Sikorsky a $435 million contract to deliver four prototype CH-53Ks for operational evaluation and mission testing;[33] Sikorsky says its first two flight-test vehicles will examine structural flight loads while the third and fourth prototypes will concentrate on validating the CH-53K's general performance, propulsion system and avionics. As of 22 January 2016, the second of the four had been delivered.[34]
On 1 October 2013, Sikorsky issued an $8.5 million contract to Kratos Defense & Security Solutions for the design and development of maintenance training systems for the CH-53K. The contract includes a full-fidelity Maintenance Training Device Suite (MTDS) and a Helicopter Emulation Maintenance Trainer (HEMT) for the Marine Corps. The full-fidelity MTDS provides a true-to-life environment for training and evaluating the maintainers of multiple subsystems on the CH-53K platform. It supports maintenance training as well as remove-and-replace training for avionics systems, electrical systems, hydraulic systems, and other mechanical subsystems. The HEMT uses a 3D virtual environment to support maintenance training scenarios. It will provide Marine CH-53K Enlisted Aircrew and maintainers with an accurate environment to train functional tests, fault isolation, troubleshooting, and remove and installation for 27 subsystems.[35]
On 24 January 2014, the CH-53K GTV ignited its GE38-1B engines and spun the rotor head without rotors attached. Engine ignition is a significant step after independent subsystems testing had been completed. Low-rate production is planned to proceed from 2015 to 2017. The CH-53K is planned to achieve initial operating capability (IOC) in 2019, with full-rate production commencing sometime between then and 2022. The USMC is planning for eight active CH-53K squadrons, one training squadron, and one reserve squadron.[36] In April 2014, testing with blades attached began, and systems integration is to be next. Flight tests were to start in late 2014 and last 3 years. Four engineering aircraft are to each fly approximately 500 hours.[37] The maiden flight has been delayed,[38][39][40] due to challenges with the titanium quill shafts[41] in the transmission system and gear box.[42]
On 5 May 2014, General James F. Amos announced during the official rollout that the CH-53K will be called the 'King Stallion'.[43] On 27 October 2015, the CH-53K took its first flight.[44] On 7 March 2018, a King Stallion lifted a payload of 36,000 pounds at the Sikorsky Development Flight Center. This is the maximum weight on the single center point cargo hook.[45][46]
The first CH-53K was delivered to the Marine Corps on 16 May 2018; 18 additional helicopters were in production, and the second is planned for delivery in early 2019.[47]
As of December 2018, the CH-53K is projected to not be ready for combat as currently expected in late 2019, after a delay in delivery was made due to technical flaws found in design testing on the units delivered. The flaws found in testing is resulting in a 'major restructuring of the program' to deliver the new model. These flaws included exhaust gas being sucked back into the engine, limited service life for the rotor gear boxes and deficiencies with the tail rotor and driveshaft, along with late deliveries of redesigned parts.[48] It is estimated that the delay will push back delivery of combat-ready King Stallions until May 2020.[49]
Design[edit]
A CH-53K lifts a Joint Light Tactical Vehicle during a demonstration
The CH-53K is a general redesign with new engines and cockpit layout.[13] The CH-53K will use General Electric T408 (GE38-1B) engines rated at 7,500 shp (5,600 kW) each[50] and will be able to fly 20 knots (37 km/h; 23 mph) faster than its CH-53E predecessor.[51]
It will feature a new digital glass cockpit with fly-by-wire controls and haptic feedback, HUMS,[52] a new elastomeric hub system, and composite rotor blades to improve 'hot and high' performance.[13][53] The split torque gearbox with quill shafts started development around 2007.[54][55][56] The gearbox assembly including rotor hub and rotating control system weighs around 11,650 lb (5,280 kg),[57] which is heavier than an empty Black Hawk helicopter.[58] The split torque gearbox weighs 5,270 lb (2,390 kg).[55] By comparison, the twin-engine Mil Mi-26 split torque gearbox weighs 8,020 lb (3,639 kg).[59]
The CH-53K will also include an improved external cargo handling system, survivability enhancements, and improvements to extend service life.[13] The cabin will be 30 ft (9.14 m) long by 9 ft (2.74 m) wide by 6.5 ft (1.98 m) tall.[60] Its cabin will be 1 ft (30 cm) wider and 15% larger, but will have new shorter composite sponsons.[13][53]
The CH-53K is to surpass the capability of the CH-53E by carrying nearly double the external payload of 27,000 lb (12,200 kg) over the same radius of 110 nmi (204 km).[51] The CH-53K's payload reaches a maximum of 35,000 lb (15,900 kg).[51] The CH-53K's maximum gross weight will be 88,000 lb (39,900 kg),[58] which is increased over the CH-53E's 73,500 lb (33,300 kg). The CH-53K will keep approximately the same footprint as the CH-53E.[16]
The CH-53K can carry two 463L master pallets, eliminating the need to break apart pallets between airlifter and helicopter.[61][62]
Operational history[edit]
Germany[edit]
In February 2018, Sikorsky signed an agreement valued at around 4 billion euro with Rheinmetall to team up for the German Air Force's CH-53G heavy lift helicopter replacement program, in which the CH-53K is competing against the CH-47F Chinook offered by Boeing. The German Federal Ministry of Defence was expected to issue an official request for information in the second half of 2018, with a timeline to award a contract in 2020 and deliveries to begin in 2023 for an expected order of around 40 helicopters.[63][64][65]
Israel[edit]
The Israeli Air Force has shown interest in the CH-53K. In 2009, the service said it would evaluate the new variant after it flies.[66] In August 2015, the Israeli Air Force formalized a requirement for the CH-53K heavy transport helicopter, listing the type as a 'very high priority' item to enable the service to perform missions only the platform is capable of. Israel's current CH-53 'Yasur' fleet is to remain operational until 2025.[67]
The CH-53K is competing with the Boeing CH-47F Chinook for an order of approximately 20 helicopters to replace the Air Force's current inventory of CH-53 Sea Stallions.[68][63][64]
Japan[edit]
Japan has reportedly shown interest in the CH-53K.[63][64]
Operators[edit]
- United States
- United States Marine Corps[69]
Specifications (CH-53K)[edit]
Data for K model are marked with an asterisk (*). All others for E model.
Data from Sikorsky CH-53K sources,[51][60][70] GE38-1B data,[50] Flightglobal.com[71]
General characteristics
- Crew: 5: 2 pilots, 1 crew chief/right gunner, 1 left gunner, 1 tail gunner (combat crew)
- Capacity: 37 troops (55 with centerline seats installed)
- Payload: * 35,000 lb (15,900 kg)
- Length: 99 ft 1/2 in (30.2 m)
- Rotor diameter: 79 ft (24 m)
- Height: 27 ft 9 in (8.46 m)
- Disc area: 4,900 ft² (460 m²)
- Empty weight: 33,226 lb (15,071 kg)
- Loaded weight: 74,000 lb (33,600 kg)
- Max. takeoff weight: * 84,700 lb (38,400 kg)
- Rotor systems: 7 blades on main rotor (each 35 ft × 35 in), 4 blades on tail rotor
- Powerplant: 3 × *General ElectricGE38-1Bturboshaft, * 7,500 shp (5,600 kW) each
Performance
- Cruise speed: * 170 knots (196 mph, 315 km/h)
- Range: * 460 nmi (852 km) no reserves
- Combat radius: * 110 nmi (126 mi, 204 km)
- Service ceiling: * 14,400 ft (4,380 m)
- Rate of climb: 2,500 ft/min (13 m/s)
Armament
- Guns:
- 2 window-mounted .50 BMG (12.7 mm) M3M/GAU-21 machine guns
- 1 ramp-mounted .50 BMG (12.7 mm) M3M/GAU-21 machine gun
- Other:Chaff and flare dispensers
See also[edit]
Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
Related lists
References[edit]
- ^'What's Strangling the CH-53K? - Defense Tech'. archive.is. 7 July 2012. Archived from the original on 7 July 2012. Retrieved 9 February 2019.
- ^ abcde'GAO-15-342SP DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS Assessments of Selected Weapon Programs'(PDF). US Government Accountability Office. March 2015. p. 69. Retrieved 15 July 2015.
- ^ abhttp://m.waaytv.com/redstone_alabama/meet-the-ch--k--the-helicopter-that-for/article_5d5a6c9e-1418-11e7-a851-8f8e666a7c5c.html[permanent dead link]
- ^Schogol, Jeff (8 August 2017). 'Total cost of CH-53K is $131 million per helicopter: Here's the breakdown'. Defense News. Retrieved 9 February 2019.
- ^ abcSikorsky Giant Helicopters: S-64, S-65, & S-80. Vectorsite.net, 1 May 2006.
- ^Frawley, Gerard: The International Directory of Military Aircraft, p. 148. Aerospace Publications Pty Ltd, 2002. ISBN1-875671-55-2.
- ^ abcdefS-80 Origins / US Marine & Navy Service / Japanese Service. Vectorsite.net, 1 May 2006.
- ^ abcCH-53A/D/E Sea Stallion and MH-53E Sea Dragon. US Navy, 15 November 2000.
- ^'Sikorsky Awarded $3.0B Development Contract For Marine Corps CH-53K Heavy-Lift Helicopter'. Sikorsky Aircraft, 5 April 2006.
- ^'Sikorsky Aircraft Marks Start of CH-53K Development and Demonstration Phase'. Sikorsky Aircraft, 17 April 2006.
- ^'New Heavy Lift Helicopter Starts Development'. U.S. Marine Corps, 9 January 2006.
- ^ abWhittle, Richard. USMC CH-53E Costs Rise With Op TempoRotor & Wing, Aviation Today, January 2007. Accessed: 15 March 2012.
- ^ abcdefS-80 Upgrades / CH-53KArchived 26 June 2010 at the Wayback Machine. Vectorsite.net, 1 March 2008.
- ^'Sikorsky Aircraft Selects CH-53K Main Engines'. Sikorsky Aircraft, 22 December 2006.
- ^'CH-53K: The U.S. Marines' HLR Helicopter Program (updated)'. Defense Industry Daily. Watershed Publishing LLC. 28 December 2006. Archived from the original on 2 January 2007. Retrieved 3 January 2007.
- ^ abcde'Sikorsky Selects CH-53K Fuselage Supplier Team'. Sikorsky Aircraft, 9 May 2007.
- ^'Onboard Systems awarded Sikorsky CH-53K cargo hook program'. 'Rotorhub.com', 4 March 2008.[dead link]
- ^'Sikorsky Aircraft Selects Rockwell Collins to Provide CH-53K Avionics Management System'. Sikorsky Aircraft, 29 June 2006.
- ^'Marines Up Order for New Heavy Lifter'Archived 1 July 2012 at Archive.today. 'Rotor & Wing', 1 August 2007.
- ^'US Marines in desperate need of new CH-53K'. Flight Daily News, 21 June 2007.
- ^Fein, Geoff. 'Marine Corps Helicopter Programs Stabilizing, Official Says'. Defense Daily, 28 May 2008. (Online subscription article).
- ^'Warfighting and Logistic Support of Joint Forces from the Joint Sea Base'. RAND, 2007.
- ^Bruno, Michael. 'Seabasing Study Promotes CH-53K, JHSV Over MV-22'Archived 22 March 2012 at the Wayback Machine. Aviation Week, 16 October 2007.
- ^Fein, Geoff. 'Navy, Sikorsky Overcoming Challenges To CH-53K Design'. Defense Daily, 15 May 2008. (Online subscription article).
- ^Parker, Andrew. 'Pause to Reflect on Obstacle-Filled Road'. Aviation Today, 28 May 2014. Accessed: 8 June 2014.
- ^'Sikorsky opens $20M production center'. hartfordbusiness.com. Retrieved 22 January 2010.
- ^'CH-53K helicopter program achieves successful Critical Design review'. Rotorhub, 3 August 2010. Retrieved: 4 August 2010.
- ^'CH-53K Helicopter Program Achieves Successful Critical Design Review'. Sikorsky Aircraft, 3 August 2010. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
- ^'CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter Program Conducts Successful Auxiliary Power Unit 'Light-Off'. Sikorsky Aircraft, 25 August 2010.
- ^'NAVAIR Evaluating New CH-53K proposal From Sikorsky.'Fly Away Simulation. 16 April 2012.
- ^'Sikorsky delivers first CH-53K'. Star Defense. Archived from the original on 8 February 2013. Retrieved 10 December 2012.
- ^'Sikorsky CH-53K may be operational ahead of schedule'. Flightglobal.com, 10 April 2013.
- ^'Sikorsky awarded $435 million contract for four CH-53K test aircraft.' Flight International, 31 May 2013.
- ^'CH-53K project expands to 120kt and two test helicopters.' Flight International, 14 March 2016.
- ^Kratos to build maintenance trainers for CH-53K – Shephardmedia.com, 1 October 2013
- ^Sikorsky fires up main CH-53K engines – Flightglobal.com, 10 February 2014
- ^'Sikorsky begins powered ground tests of CH-53K helicopter with rotor blades'. Sikorsky press release. 1 May 2014. Archived from the original on 8 May 2014. Retrieved 13 July 2014.
- ^Shalal, Andrea; Potter, Mark (13 July 2014). 'Sikorsky sees delay in first flight of Marine Corps helicopter'. finance.yahoo.com. Reuters. Retrieved 13 July 2014.
- ^Drwiega, Andrew. 'King Stallion Trots Toward Flight Test ProgramArchived 22 October 2014 at the Wayback Machine' Aviation Today, 2 October 2014. Accessed: 18 October 2014.
- ^Parsons, Dan (3 December 2014). 'Sikorsky CH-53K first flight pushed at earliest to March'. www.flightglobal.com. Flightglobal.com. Retrieved 3 December 2014.
- ^'Sikorsky tells US ownership change won't affect CH-53K program'. 17 June 2015. Retrieved 9 February 2019 – via www.reuters.com.
- ^Malenic, Marina. 'Sikorsky redesigns CH-53K main gear box components as E-models are kept in service' Janes, 14 April 2015. Retrieved: 19 April 2015. Archive
- ^'Engineering the Future of Vertical Lift | Lockheed Martin'. Sikorsky. Retrieved 9 February 2019.
- ^'Sikorsky's CH-53K helicopter makes first test flight - Marine Corps'. 27 October 2015. Retrieved 9 February 2019 – via www.reuters.com.
- ^Flanker41 (7 March 2018). 'CH-53K King Stallion Lifts 36,000 Pounds'. Military.com. Retrieved 9 February 2019.
- ^'CH-53K marks heavy-lift milestone - Jane's 360'. www.janes.com. Retrieved 9 February 2019.
- ^The Corps just received its first CH-53K King Stallion. Marine Corps Times. 16 May 2018.
- ^Lockheed's $31 Billion King Stallion Helicopter Delayed by New Flaws. Bloomberg. 19 December 2018.
- ^The $31 Billion King Stallion Helicopter Is the Latest Military Program That Won't Be Combat-Ready on Time. Time.com. 19 December 2018.
- ^ abGeneral Electric Model GE38 page. GE Aviation.
- ^ abcdCH-53K brochure. Sikorsky.
- ^Head, Elan (2017). 'Meet the King'. pp. 40–49. Retrieved 22 January 2017.
- ^ ab'Prototype Assembly Looms As First Production Parts Arrive for CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter'. Sikorsky Aircraft, 6 August 2009.
- ^'Marine Corps Prepares New CH-53K for First Flight'. DefenseTech, 21 October 2014. Accessed: 23 October 2014.
- ^ abHe, S., Gmirya, Y., Mowka, F., Leigh, L. 'Trade Study on Different Design Configurations of the CH-53K Main Gearbox'Archived 18 November 2015 at the Wayback MachineNASA, 2008
- ^Buzel, Gregory; Gmirya, Yuriy; He, Shulin; Leigh, Leslie. Load Sharing Test of the CH-53K Split Torque Main GearboxAHS International/Sikorsky, 2009
- ^Gmirya, Y., Alulis, M., Palcic, P., Leigh, L. 'Design and Development of a Modern Transmission: Baseline Configuration of the CH-53K Drive SystemArchived 18 November 2015 at the Wayback Machine', NASA, 2011.
- ^ abParker, Andrew. 'CH-53K King Stallion Inches Closer to Sunrise' Aviation Today, 6 May 2014. Accessed: 7 May 2014.
- ^Lev I. Chaiko (1990) Review of the Transmissions of the Soviet Helicopters, pp. 2, 3, 9. NASA Glenn Research Center NASA Technical Memorandum 10363.
- ^ abCH-53K Helicopter (click on Attributes tab). Sikorsky.
- ^'CH-53K Helicopter.'Sikorsky
- ^Vendrasco, Stephanie. 'Cargo cabin mockup ready for some heavy lifting.'USMC, 20 December 2007.
- ^ abcShalal, Andrea (15 November 2017). 'Lockheed's CH-53K helicopter to make global debut at Berlin air show: sources'. Reuters. Berlin. Archived from the original on 14 December 2017. Retrieved 7 February 2018.
- ^ abcShalal, Andrea (5 February 2018). 'Lockheed, Rheinmetall team up to bid for German helicopter order'. Reuters. Berlin. Archived from the original on 7 February 2018. Retrieved 7 February 2018.
- ^Stevenson, Beth (6 February 2018). 'Sikorsky teams with Rheinmetall for German heavy lift competition'. IHS Jane's 360. London. Archived from the original on 7 February 2018. Retrieved 7 February 2018.
- ^Egozi, Arie. 'Israel drops interest in V-22, eyes CH-53K evaluation.'Flight International, 12 November 2009.
- ^Israeli air force looks for lift from CH-53K – Flightglobal.com, 10 August 2015
- ^Ahronheim, Anna (2 August 2018). 'Two Defense Companies Compete to Replace Israel's Heavy-Lift Helicopters'. The Jerusalem Post. Archived from the original on 7 February 2018. Retrieved 7 February 2018.
- ^'US Marine Corps takes delivery of first CH-53K'. flightglobal.com. Retrieved 18 May 2018.
- ^CH-53K mission brief. Sikorsky.
- ^Jon Hemmerdinger (21 February 2014), Sikorsky CH-53K testing continues on schedule, Flightglobal
External links[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion. |
- CH-53X and CH-53K pages on GlobalSecurity.org
- 'GE cuts metal for engine to power Sikorsky's CH-53K'. Flightglobal.com, 12 February 2008.
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sikorsky_CH-53K_King_Stallion&oldid=899450144'
(Redirected from CH-53E Super Stallion)
CH-53E Super Stallion MH-53E Sea Dragon | |
---|---|
A CH-53E Super Stallion with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit | |
Role | Heavy-lift cargo helicopter |
National origin | United States |
Manufacturer | Sikorsky Aircraft |
First flight | 1 March 1974 |
Introduction | 1981 |
Status | In service |
Primary users | United States Marine Corps United States Navy Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force |
Produced | 1978–1980s[citation needed] |
Number built | 234[citation needed] |
Unit cost | |
Developed from | Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion |
Developed into | Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion |
The Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion is a heavy-lift helicopter operated by the United States military. As the Sikorsky S-80 it was developed from the CH-53 Sea Stallion, mainly by adding a third engine, adding a seventh blade to the main rotor and canting the tail rotor 20 degrees. It was built by Sikorsky Aircraft for the United States Marine Corps. The less common MH-53E Sea Dragon fills the United States Navy's need for long range minesweeping or Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM) missions, and perform heavy-lift duties for the Navy. Under development is the Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion, which has new engines, new composite materialrotor blades, and a wider aircraft cabin; this is to replace the CH-53E.
- 1Development
- 3Operational history
Development[edit]
Background[edit]
The CH-53 was the product of the U.S. Marines' 'Heavy Helicopter Experimental' (HH(X)) competition begun in 1962. Sikorsky's S-65 was selected over Boeing Vertol's modified CH-47 Chinook version. The prototype YCH-53A first flew on 14 October 1964.[1] The helicopter was designated 'CH-53A Sea Stallion' and delivery of production helicopters began in 1966.[2] The first CH-53As were powered by two General Electric T64-GE-6 turboshaft engines with 2,850 shp (2,125 kW) and had a maximum gross weight of 46,000 lb (20,865 kg) including 20,000 lb (9,072 kg) in payload.
Variants of the original CH-53A Sea Stallion include the RH-53A/D, HH-53B/C, CH-53D, CH-53G, and MH-53H/J/M. The RH-53A and RH-53D were used by the US Navy for mine sweeping. The CH-53D included a more powerful version of the General Electric T64 engine, used in all H-53 variants, and external fuel tanks. The CH-53G was a version of the CH-53D produced in West Germany for the German Army.[1]
The US Air Force's HH-53B/C 'Super Jolly Green Giant' were for special operations and combat rescue and were first deployed during the Vietnam War. The Air Force's MH-53H/J/M Pave Low helicopters were the last of the twin engined H-53s and were equipped with extensive avionics upgrades for all weather operation.
H-53E[edit]
In October 1967, the US Marine Corps issued a requirement for a helicopter with a lifting capacity 1.8 times that of the CH-53D that would fit on amphibious warfare ships. The US Navy and US Army were also seeking similar helicopters at the time. Before issue of the requirement Sikorsky had been working on an enhancement to the CH-53D, under the company designation 'S-80', featuring a third turboshaft engine and a more powerful rotor system. Sikorsky proposed the S-80 design to the Marines in 1968. The Marines liked the idea since it promised to deliver a good solution quickly, and funded development of a testbed helicopter for evaluation.[3]
The YCH-53E on its first flight, 1 March 1974
In 1970, against pressure by the US Defense Secretary to take the Boeing Vertol XCH-62 being developed for the Army, the Navy and Marines were able to show the Army's helicopter was too large to operate on landing ships and were allowed to pursue their helicopter.[3] Prototype testing investigated the addition of a third engine and a larger rotor system with a seventh blade in the early 1970s. In 1974, the initial YCH-53E first flew.[4]
Changes on the CH-53E also include a stronger transmission and a fuselage stretched 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 m). The main rotor blades were changed to a titanium-fiberglass composite.[3] The tail configuration was also changed. The low-mounted symmetrical horizontal tail was replaced by a larger vertical tail and the tail rotor tilted from the vertical to provide some lift in hover while counteracting the main rotor torque. Also added was a new automatic flight control system.[4] The digital flight control system prevented the pilot from overstressing the aircraft.[3]
YCH-53E testing showed that it could lift 17.8 tons (to a 50-foot (15 m) wheel height), and without an external load, could reach 170 knots (310 km/h) at a 56,000 pound gross weight. This led to two preproduction aircraft and a static test article being ordered. At this time the tail was redesigned to include a high-mounted, horizontal surface opposite the rotor with an inboard section perpendicular to the tail rotor then at the strut connection cants 20 degrees to horizontal.[4]
A production CH-53E during flight demonstration showing the three engines and the tail rotor pylon
The initial production contract was awarded in 1978, and service introduction followed in February 1981.[3] The first production CH-53E flew in December 1980.[4] The US Navy acquired the CH-53E in small numbers for shipboard resupply. The Marines and Navy acquired a total of 177.[3]
The Navy requested a version of the CH-53E for the airborne mine countermeasures role, designated 'MH-53E Sea Dragon'. It has enlarged sponsons to provide substantially greater fuel storage and endurance. It also retained the in-flight refueling probe, and could be fitted with up to seven 300 US gallon (1,136 liter) ferry tanks internally. The MH-53E digital flight-control system includes features specifically designed to help tow minesweeping gear.[3] The prototype MH-53E made its first flight on 23 December 1981. MH-53E was used by the Navy beginning in 1986. The MH-53E is capable of in-flight refueling and can be refueled at hover.[4]
A MH-53E Sea Dragon from HM-15 during a mine sweeping exercise, 2007
Additionally, a number of MH-53E helicopters were exported to Japan as the S-80-M-1 for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
The base model CH-53E serves both the US Navy and Marines in the heavy lift transport role. It is capable of lifting heavy equipment including the eight-wheeled LAV-25 Light Armored Vehicle, the M198 155 mm Howitzer with ammunition and crew. The Super Stallion can recover aircraft up to its size, which includes all Marine Corps aircraft except for the KC-130.
The 53E needs 40 maintenance hours per flight hour due to aging parts, lack of available new replacement parts and the extension of the overall airframe lifetime.[5]
CH-53K[edit]
The US Marine Corps had been planning to upgrade most of their CH-53Es to keep them in service, but this plan stalled. Sikorsky then proposed a new version, originally the 'CH-53X', and in April 2006, the USMC signed a contract for 156 aircraft as the 'CH-53K'.[6][7] The Marines are planning to start retiring CH-53Es in 2009 and need new helicopters very quickly.[8]
In August 2007, the USMC increased its order of CH-53Ks to 227.[9] First flight was planned for November 2011 with initial operating capability by 2015.[10]
Design[edit]
View of the CH-53E's cockpit during an in-flight refueling operation with an Air Force HC-130 Hercules
Although dimensionally similar, the three engine CH-53E Super Stallion or Sikorsky S-80 is a much more powerful aircraft than the original Sikorsky S-65 twin engined CH-53A Sea Stallion. The CH-53E also added a larger main rotor system with a seventh blade.[citation needed]
The CH-53E as designed to transport up to 55 troops or 30,000 lb (13,610 kg) of cargo and can carry external slung loads up to 36,000 lb (16,330 kg).[3] The CH-53E has incorporated the same crash attenuating seats as the MV-22B to increase survivability of passengers but at a cost of reducing its original troop transport capacity.[citation needed] The Super Stallion has a cruise speed of 173 mph (278 km/h) and a range of 621 miles (1,000 km).[11] The helicopter is fitted with a forward extendable in-flight refueling probe and it can also hoist hose refuel from a surface ship while in hover mode. It can carry three machine guns: one at the starboard side crew door; one at the port window, just behind the copilot; and one at the tail ramp.[citation needed] The CH-53E also has chaff-flare dispensers.[3]
A CH-53 sling loads a HMMWV during a MAGTF demonstration
The MH-53E features enlarged side mounted fuel sponsons and is rigged for towing various minesweeping and hunting gear from above the dangerous naval mines. The Sea Dragon can be equipped for minesweeping, cargo and passenger transportation, and troop insertion. Its digital flight-control system includes features specifically designed to help towing mine sweeping gear.[3]
Upgrades to the CH-53E have included the Helicopter Night Vision System (HNVS), improved .50 BMG (12.7 mm) GAU-21/A and M3P machine guns, and AAQ-29A forward looking infrared (FLIR) imager.[3]
The CH-53E and the MH-53E are the largest helicopters in the Western world, while the CH-53K now being developed will be even larger. They are fourth in the world to the Russian Mil Mi-26Halo single-rotor helicopter and the enormous, twin transverse rotoredMil V-12Homer, which can lift more than 22 tons (20 tonnes) and 44 tons (40 tonnes), respectively and the Mi-26's single-rotor predecessor Mil Mi-6, which has less payload (12 tonnes) but is bigger and has a higher MTOW at 42 tonnes.[citation needed]
Operational history[edit]
A pair of Super Stallion helicopters receive fuel from a KC-130 Hercules while transporting Humvees over the Gulf of Aden
USMC CH-53E recovering a disabled US Army CH-47 Chinook in eastern Afghanistan, 2010.
1980s[edit]
The Super Stallion variant first entered service with the creation of Heavy Marine Helicopter Squadron 464 at Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina. Two more squadrons were created at Marine Corps Air Station Tustin, California over the next several years, HMH-465 and HMH-466. In addition, one west coast training squadron, HMT-301, was given Super Stallions as was one more east coast squadron, HMH-772, out of a reserve base at NASJRB Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. Since then, other Marine Heavy lift squadrons have retired their CH-53As and Ds, replacing them with Es.
The Marine Corps CH-53E saw its first shipboard deployment in 1983 when four CH-53E helicopters from HMH-464 deployed aboard USS Iwo Jima as part of the 24th Marine Amphibious Unit (24th MAU).[citation needed] During this deployment Marines were sent ashore in Beirut, Lebanon as peace keepers and established perimeters at and near the Beirut International Airport. On 23 October 1983, a truck bomb detonated by terrorists destroyed the Marine barracks in Beirut, killing nearly 240 service members as they slept. CH-53E helicopters from the 24th MAU provided critical combat support during this operation.
1990s[edit]
In 1991, two CH-53Es along with several CH-46 Sea Knight helicopters were sent to evacuate U.S. and foreign nationals from the U.S. embassy in Mogadishu, Somalia—Operation Eastern Exit—as violence enveloped the city during the Somalian Civil War.[12]
During Operation Desert Storm, MH-53E shipboard based Sea Dragons were used for mine clearing operations in the Persian Gulf off Kuwait.
On 8 June 1995, Captain Scott O'Grady, an F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot shot down over Bosnia, was rescued by two CH-53Es.[13]
2000s[edit]
On 26 October 2001, three CH-53Es aboard USS Peleliu and three CH-53Es aboard USS Bataan flew 550 miles (890 km) to secure the first land base in Afghanistan, Camp Rhino, with 1100 troops at its peak.[14] This amphibious raid is the longest amphibious raid in history. The long range capability of the CH-53Es enabled Marines to establish a southern base in Afghanistan, putting the war on the ground.[citation needed]
Super Stallions again played a major role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. They were critical to moving supplies and ammunition to the most forward Marine units and also assisted in moving casualties back to the rear for follow on care. Marine CH-53Es and CH-46Es carried US Army Rangers and Special Operations troops in a mission to rescue captured Army Private Jessica Lynch on 1 April 2003.[15]
Currently, about 150 CH-53E helicopters are in service with the Marines and another 28 MH-53Es are in service with the U.S Navy. The CH-53 requires 44 maintenance hours per flight hour. A flight hour costs about $20,000.[16]
Variants[edit]
CH-53E during Exercise RIMPAC (2014)
- YCH-53E
- United States military designation for two Sikorsky S-65E (later S-80E) prototypes.
- CH-53E Super Stallion
- United States military designation for the S-80E heavy lift transport variant for the United States Navy and Marine Corps, 170 built.
- MH-53E Sea Dragon
- United States military designation for the S-80M mine-countermeasures variant for the United States Navy, 50 built.
- VH-53F
- Proposed presidential transport variant, not-built.
- S-80E
- Export variant of the heavy lift transport variant, not-built.
- S-80M
- Export variant of the mine-countermeasures variant, 11-built for Japan. The last were retired in 2017.[17][18]
Operators[edit]
High speed, low level pass during demonstration at the National Test Pilot School, Mojave, California
A Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force MH-53E Sea Dragon lands aboard USS Tortuga in 2011.
- United States
- United States Marine Corps[19]
- HMH-361[20]
- HMH-366[21]
- HMH-461[22]
- HMH-462[23]
- HMH-464[24]
- HMH-465[25]
- HMH-466[26]
- HMH-769[27]
- HMH-772[28]
- United States Navy[19]
- HM-14[29]
- HM-15[30]
- Japan
- Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force[19]
Accidents[edit]
Between 1969-1990, more than 200 servicemen were killed in accidents involving the CH-53A, CH-53D and CH-53E.[31] The MH-53E Sea Dragon is the U.S. Navy's helicopter most prone to accidents, with 27 deaths from 1984 to 2008. During that timeframe, its rate of Class A mishaps, meaning serious damage or loss of life, was 5.96 per 100,000 flight hours, more than twice the Navy helicopter average of 2.26.[32] A 2005 lawsuit alleges that since 1993, there were at least 16 in-flight fires or thermal incidents involving the No. 2 engine on Super Stallion helicopters. The suit claims that proper changes were not made, nor were crews instructed on emergency techniques.[33][34]
- On 1 June 1984, a CH-53E based at Tustin was lifting a truck from the deck of a ship during an exercise when a sling attached to the truck broke. This sent a shock wave into the aircraft and caused major damage. Four crew members died in the accident.[35]
- On 19 November 1984, a CH-53E on a routine training mission at Camp Lejeune, NC, was lifting a seven-ton howitzer before it crashed. Six people were killed, and 11 injured.[35] It experienced a loss of tail rotor function, lost control and impacted the ground. The cabin area was quickly consumed by the ensuing fire.[36]
- On 13 July 1985, a CH-53E from a Tustin squadron was on a flight in Okinawa when it struck a logging cable and exploded. Four people were killed.[35]
- On 25 August 1985, a CH-53E from New River, NC, was flying a routine supply and passenger run from Tustin to Twentynine Palms during a training operation when it caught fire and crashed in Laguna Hills. One of the three crew members was killed and the aircraft was a total loss.[35][37]
- On 9 May 1986, a CH-53E crashed during training exercises near Twentynine Palms, killing four Marines and injuring another. The accident was the Super Stallion's fifth crash in two-year period.[38]
- On 8 January 1987, a Marine Corps CH-53E crashed while practicing night landings for troop deployment at the Salton Sea Test Range. All five crew members were killed.[39]
- On 9 May 1996, a CH-53E crashed at Sikorsky's Stratford plant, killing four employees on board. This led to the Navy grounding all CH-53Es and MH-53Es.[33]
- On 10 August 2000, a MH-53E Sea Dragon crashed in the Gulf of Mexico near Corpus Christi and resulted in the deaths of four of the six crew members. The helicopters were later returned to service with improved swash plate duplex bearings and new warning systems for the bearings.[40][41]
- On 20 January 2002, a CH-53E crash in Afghanistan killed two crew members and injured five others. Defense Department officials said the early-morning crash was the result of mechanical problems with the helicopter.[42]
- On 2 April 2002, a Navy MH-53E (BuNo 163051) of HM-14 crashed on the runway at Bahrain International Airport. All 18 people on board survived with only a few cases of minor injuries.[43]
- On 27 June 2002, a Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 4 (HC-4) 'Black Stallions' crashed in a hard landing at NAS Sigonella, Sicily. No one was injured, but the aircraft was written off.[43][44]
- On 16 July 2003, a Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 4 (HC-4) 'Black Stallions' crashed near the town of Palagonia, about 10 miles west-southwest of Naval Air Station Sigonella, killing the four member crew. The flight was on a routine training mission.[44][45]
- On 26 January 2005, a CH-53E carrying 30 Marines and one Navy Corpsmancrashed in Al-Anbar province near Rutbah, Iraq, killing all 31 on board.[46][47] A sandstorm was determined as the cause of the accident. The crash was part of the deadliest day of the Iraq War in terms of US fatalities.[48]
- On 16 February 2005, an MH-53E from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 4 (HC-4), based at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, crashed on the base, injuring the four crew members.[49]
- On 17 February 2006, two CH-53Es carrying a combined U.S. Marine Corps and Air Force crew collided during a training mission over the Gulf of Aden, resulting in ten deaths and two injuries.[50][51]
- On 16 January 2008, a Navy MH-53E on a routine training mission crashed approximately four miles south of Corpus Christi, Texas. Three crew members died in the crash and one crew member was treated at a local hospital.[52]
- On 29 June 2012, a Navy MH-53E from HM-14 made an emergency landing five miles northeast of Pohang, South Korea due to an in-flight fire. Though the pilots and aircrew were uninjured, the aircraft was heavily damaged by the fire.[53]
- On 19 July 2012 a Navy MH-53E crashed 58 miles south of Muscat, Oman during a heavy lift operation, resulting in two deaths.[54]
- On 8 January 2014, a US Navy MH-53E Sea Dragon crashed in the Atlantic 18 nautical miles east of Cape Henry, Virginia with five crew members on board. Three crew members perished in the mishap.[55][56][57]
- On 1 September 2014, a US Marine CH-53E of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit crashed in the Gulf of Aden while attempting to land on the USS Mesa Verde following training operations in Djibouti. All 17 Marines and 8 sailors on board were rescued.[58]
- On 14 January 2016, two US Marine CH-53Es on a night time training exercise off the coast of Hawaii collided with each other, resulting in the loss of both aircraft and death of their 12 crew members; each CH-53E was carrying a crew of six.[59]
- On 11 October 2017, a US Marine Corps CH-53E based at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma crashed in the Takae district of Higashi village in Okinawa. A fire broke out in one of the helicopter's engines forcing a crash-landing 300 meters from homes. After the landing the helicopter was destroyed by fire. No one was injured in the accident.[60][61] This led the US military to ground CH-53E aircraft in Japan, and for the Japanese government to call for an indefinite grounding.[62][63] This caused anger along some local people[64] and displeasure from the Japanese government after flights were resumed a week later.[65]
- On 3 April 2018, a USMC CH-53E of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing crashed near Plaster City, California killing 4 Marines.[66][67]
Specifications (CH-53E)[edit]
The CH-53E rotor and exhaust assembly in detail
A MH-53E towing the MK105 minesweeping sled.
Data from U.S. Navy history,[68] International Directory,[2] World Aircraft[69]
General characteristics
- Crew: 5: 2 pilots, 1 crew chief/right gunner, 1 left gunner, 1 tail gunner (combat crew)
- Capacity: 30 troops with new crash attenuating seats[citation needed]
- Payload: internal: 30,000 lb or 13,600 kg (external: 36,000 lb or 14,500 kg)
- Length: 99 ft 1/2 in (30.2 m)
- Rotor diameter: 79 ft (24 m)
- Height: 27 ft 9 in (8.46 m)
- Disc area: 4,900 ft² (460 m²)
- Empty weight: 33,226 lb (15,071 kg)
- Max. takeoff weight: 73,500 lb (33,300 kg)
- Rotor systems: 7 blades on main rotor, 4 blades on anti-torque tail rotor
- Powerplant: 3 × General Electric T64-GE-416/416A/419turboshaft, 4,380 shp[70] (3,270 kW) each
Performance
- Never exceed speed: 150 kt (173 mph, 278 km/h)
- Maximum speed: 150 kt[71] (173 mph, 278 km/h)
- Cruise speed: 120 kt (138 mph, 222 km/h)
- Range: 540 nmi (621 mi, 1,000 km)
- Combat radius: 180 nmi (207 mi, 333 km)
- Ferry range: 990 nmi (1,139 mi, 1,833 km)
- Service ceiling: 18,500 ft (5,640 m)
- Rate of climb: 2,500 ft/min (13 m/s)
Armament
- Guns:
- 2× .50 BMG (12.7 x 99 mm) window-mounted GAU-21machine guns
- 1× .50 BMG (12.7 x 99 mm) ramp mounted weapons system, GAU-21 (M3M mounted machine gun)
- Other: Chaff and flare dispensers
Notable appearances in media[edit]
The documentary Who Killed Lt. Van Dorn? examines the 2014 Sea Dragon crash off Cape Henry, Virginia and the larger maintenance and command problems surrounding the CH-53E fleet.[72][73]
See also[edit]
Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
Related lists
References[edit]
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External links[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion. |
- CH-53A/D/E history page, CH-53E, and MH-53E pages on Navy.mil
- CH-53E/S-80E page and MH-53E page on Sikorsky.com
- CH-53E and MH-53E pages on GlobalSecurity.org
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