Sikorsky MH-53M Pave Low IV
The MH-53M is the last version of the H-53 Super Jolly Green Giant that was developed during the Vietnam War. The H-53 was designed by Sikorsky to meet an Air Force requirement for a long-range Combat Search and Rescue helicopter to supplement the HH-3 Jolly Green Giant. Based on the CH-53A Sea Stallion, the HH-53B entered service in 1967, quickly followed by the HH-53C. The Air Force was very happy with the performance of the helicopter, both in the search and rescue role and as a transport for Special Forces troops. The only drawback of the helicopter was a lack of all-weather and night capability. To address this, the HH-53s were modified with night vision equipment and other sensors under a program called “Pave Low.” The upgraded helicopters were redesignated as MH-53H. The final upgrade came with the MH-53M Pave Low IV which gave the helicopters even more capabilities, with onboard mission planning computers and satellite communications allowing planning of routes and missions while airborne.
Rotor Diameter | 72 ft 3 in. |
Length | 88 ft 2 in. |
Height | 24 ft 11 in. |
Weight | 42,000 lbs (loaded) |
Maximum Speed | 186 MPH |
Service Ceiling | 18,550 ft |
Range | 540 miles |
Engines | Two General Electric T64-GE-7 turboshafts with 3,925 horsepower each |
Crew | 6 |
Manufacturer
Sikorsky
Markings
United States Air Force, 20th Special Operations Squadron, 352nd Special Operations Group, Hurlburt Field, Florida, 2008
Serial Number
73-1649
Designation
MH-53M