Sikorsky CH-53G

The CH-53 Sea Stallion was originally developed for the US Marine Corps during the Vietnam War to provide heavy transport support to airborne assaults with an ability to carry Howitzer artillery cannons or Hawk surface to air missile systems in to battle. The Sea Stallion also found itself being used to recover smaller damaged helicopters from their landing sites and returning them to base, even having the ability to airlift the CH-47 Chinook. Deliveries to the USMC of its replacement, the CH-53K Super Sea Stallion recently began brining better capabilities and heavier cargo capabilities to the Corps.

Germany operates the CH-53G variant, a licensed built version of the CH-53D and has constantly upgraded their helicopters to keep them viable in the modern battlefield, it is also the only operator of the Sea Stallion in Europe. Originally operated by the German Army, the Sea Stallion fleet was transferred to the Air Force in 2013. Whilst Germany was expected to order the CH-53K to replace the CH-53G during 2022 the Federal Government announced the purchase of 60 CH-47F Chinooks.

The German Air Force will once again be sending one of their Sea Stallions to appear on static display at this year’s Air Tattoo. The Helicopter is being provided by Hubschraubergeschwader 64 from Laupheim Air Base.

Photo Credit: Peter Van Loey