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Sikorsky HO3S-1 Dragonfly

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Serial Number: USCG 232

Registration: N4925E

Markings: United States Coast Guard, Coast Guard Station Brooklyn, New York, 1946


The Sikorsky R-5 was the second helicopter type to go into full production for the U.S. Air Force. The R-4 used in the last stages of World War II was primarily a trainer while the R-5 was intended for observation and rescue duties. The R-5 prototype first flew in August 1943. When the US Air Force became an independent service in 1948 the designation letter for helicopters was changed from "R" to "H" and the Dragonflies were redesignated H-4. In 1946, the Dragonfly became the second helicopter to enter Coast Guard service under the Navy designation HO3S-1G. A total of 9 helicopters served from 1946 to 1959.

Technical Specifications
Main Rotor Diameter 48 ft
Length 41 ft 2 in
Height 12 ft 11 in
Weight 6,200 lbs
Maximum Speed 90 mph
Service Ceiling 10,000 ft
Range 280 miles
Engines 1 Pratt & Whitney R-985-AN-5 450 hp
Crew 2

On loan from the United States Coast Guard
Location: Outside Aircraft