Sikorsky CH-3E(Black Mariah) Towed to the Southeast Asia War Gallery скачать в хорошем качестве

Sikorsky CH-3E(Black Mariah) Towed to the Southeast Asia War Gallery

This aircraft was recently added to the Southeast Asia War Gallery. The CH-3E is the U.S. Air Force's version of the Sikorsky S-61 amphibious transport helicopter developed for the U.S. Navy. The USAF initially operated six Navy HSS-2 (SH-3A) versions of the S-61 in 1962, eventually designating them CH-3A/Bs. They were so successful the USAF ordered 75 modified versions, designated CH-3C. First flown in June 1963, the CH-3C featured a new rear fuselage design with a ramp for vehicles and other cargo. When 41 CH-3Cs were updated with more powerful engines in 1966, they were redesignated CH-3Es, and 45 more were newly manufactured. Later, 50 CH-3Es were modified for combat rescue missions with armor, defensive armament, self-sealing fuel tanks, a rescue hoist and in-flight refueling capability. They were redesignated HH-3Es and used extensively in Southeast Asia under the nickname "Jolly Green Giant." The museum's CH-3E -- known as Black Mariah -- is a veteran of the Southeast Asia War. In 1965 it was attached to the 20th Helicopter Squadron. Painted flat black (hence the nickname), it was used for highly classified special missions.