Mission

The MH-53E has two primary missions; Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM) and Navy heavy lift/Vertical Onboard Delivery (VOD).

Description

The MH-53E Sea Dragon is the Navy’s dedicated AMCM platform, capable of mine hunting, mine sweeping, and mine neutralization through the use of various AMCM devices towed behind the aircraft. Additionally, as a heavy-lift helicopter, it is capable of rapidly transporting troops and equipment from ship to shore.

Features

The MH-53E Sea Dragon incorporates a Precision Navigation System (PNS) utilizing the Global Positioning System (GPS), Doppler radar, and an Approach/Hover/Tow Coupler. Communications include Ultra High Frequency (UHF)/ Very High Frequency (VHF)/ High Frequency (HF) radios, secure communications capability, and Identification Friend or Foe (IFF).  There are currently 28 MH-53E aircraft in operation. Currently out of production, the Navy is in the process of evaluating its requirement for both AMCM and VOD missions beyond 2025.

Specifications

Fuselage Length: 73 feet, 4 inches
Overall Length: 99 feet
Height: 28 feet, 4 inches
Max Gross Weight: 69,750 pounds
Power Plant: 3 General Electric T64-GE-419 turboshaft (4,750 SHP each)
Crew: 2 pilots, 1-6 aircrew, depending on mission
Contractor: Sikorsky Aircraft