Sikorsky CH-53G

The Vietnam-era CH-53 Sea Stallion was originally developed as a heavy lift transport helicopter for the United States Marine Corps. Following a competition between the CH-53 and CH-47 Chinook, the CH-53 was chosen as the new heavy-lift helicopter for the German Army who eventually received 110 examples as the CH-53G. This included 108 airframes being licence built by VFW-Fokker in Germany. The CH-53G has continuously been upgraded throughout its service life including the provision of long-range fuel tanks and in-flight refuelling equipment. Whilst Germany has sent the CH-53G to RIAT on numerous occasions, this will be the types visit since the fleet were transferred to the German Air Force in 2013.

Photo Credit: Dean West