Earlier this week, the U.S Naval Air Systems Command reported that the Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron practiced landing a CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter in fields.
Late last year the U.S Marine Corps signed a contract to purchase six more CH-53K heavy-lift helicopters. In a recent tweet from the Naval Air Systems Command, the CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift helicopter finally practiced landing in a restrained area after a custom landing by the VMX- 1at Marine Corps Air Station New River.
This landing technique is meant to prepare helicopter squadrons for landing when the usual runways or landing zones are unavailable. Another use for this landing technique is dropping off Marines or gear in a tactical environment. The CH-53K is the best heavy lift chopper built in the U.S by the government. Also known as the King Stallion, this helicopter is expected to expand the fleet’s ability to move more equipment or troops faster. This aircraft was designed to meet all the Marine Corps lift requirements. The general redesign with new engines and cockpit layouts means that there is improved cargo handling, improvements to extend service life, and survivability enhancements.
Compared to earlier models, the King Stallion attributes its power to the three new General Electric T-408 engines which have been proven to be more fuel-efficient and powerful compared to the T-64 engines currently being used by the CH-53E.
The CH-53K is set to surpass the capability of the CH-53E by carrying almost double the weight over the same radius of 110 miles. With a maximum gross weight of 88,000 lb, the King Stallion helicopter will still maintain the same footprint as the CH-53E.
In a nutshell, the CH-53K King Stallion heavyweight chopper is being tipped for being the current best choice for handling missions like troop transport, humanitarian aid, combat research, casualty evacuation (CASEVAC), rescue (CSAR), and support of special operations forces. Irrespective of the mission, the King Stallion will provide the highest degree of safety for the crew and occupants, no matter the condition.
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Photo Credit: Naval Air Systems Command