Kaman H-43 Huskie

The Kaman H‑43 Huskie, developed by Kaman Corporation in the late 1940s, became one of the most recognizable light utility helicopters in the United States armed forces. First flown in 1947 as the H‑43A, the aircraft entered service with the U.S. Army in 1953 and soon after was adopted by the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps for rescue, liaison, and training missions. Its most distinctive attribute is the intermeshing‑rotor system, a twin‑rotor design that eliminates the need for a tail rotor and provides exceptional lift, stability, and short‑takeoff capability. Powered originally by a Lycoming O‑435 engine, later variants such as the H‑43B, H‑43C, and the upgraded H‑43D incorporated more powerful engines and improved avionics, extending range and payload. The Huskie’s compact dimensions and low‑disk loading allowed it to operate from aircraft carriers, rough terrain, and confined landing zones, making it ideal for combat search‑and‑rescue and medical evacuation under adverse conditions. Over 1,200 units were built, and the type remained in front‑line service until the early 1970s, when it was succeeded by more modern rotorcraft. The H‑43’s robust design and reliable performance cemented its reputation as a workhorse of Cold‑War era rotary‑wing aviation.

Kaman Corporation

Design & Classification