In spring 2018, the US Marines received the first newly built Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion heavy-lift transport helicopter to replace the now obsolete CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopter. It has now taken another four years, filled with performance tests under extreme climatic conditions and up to technically feasible flight altitudes, for the Marine Corps to declare full Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the worldwide deployment of its new load carrier at the end of April. Another six months have passed since then, but now an entire squadron, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461, has been able to conduct its first fleet exercise together with the US Navy.
Sikorsky CH-53K of the US Marine Corps under test conditions. Photo: US Navy
A few facts
The King Stallion represents a significant increase in capability for the Marine Corps: it can carry three times the maximum weight that could be carried by its predecessor. The helicopter can fly at higher altitudes, cover greater distances and operate in higher temperatures - all parameters the Marines were eagerly awaiting. Training took place at Mountain Home in the state of Idaho in the northern Rocky Mountains at an altitude of 1,000 metres. With a load capacity of 12 to 16 tonnes (depending on the source and probably also the flight altitude), a Light Armoured Vehicle (4-axle infantry vehicle, General Dynamics licensed construction of the Mowag Piranha, up to 16 tonnes) can certainly be flown as an external load over 100 kilometres from the amphibious assault vehicle over the horizon on land to the operational zone (and back), as was demonstrated at the end of last year during the tests.
Sikorsky CH-53K of the US Marine Corps with LAV as external load. Photo: US Navy
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