Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
Sikorsky CH-3B Sea King
The Sikorsky CH‑3B Sea King, developed by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in the early 1960s, was the first production model of the iconic twin‑engine amphibious helicopter. Derived from the original S‑61 design, the CH‑3B entered service with the United States Navy in 1962 and quickly became a versatile platform for anti‑submarine warfare, search and rescue, and transport missions. Powered by two General Electric T58‑GE-8 turboshaft engines delivering 1,400 shaft horsepower each, the Sea King featured a robust four‑blade main rotor, retractable landing gear, and a watertight hull that allowed it to land on both sea and land. Its spacious cabin accommodated up to 22 passengers or a mix of troops, cargo, and specialized mission equipment, while the onboard acoustic and radar sensors made it a premier maritime patrol asset. The CH‑3B set numerous records for endurance and range, proving its reliability in harsh oceanic environments. Over 250 units were built, serving not only the U.S. Navy but also allied navies worldwide. The aircraft’s longevity, adaptability, and pioneering amphibious capabilities cemented its role as a milestone in rotorcraft development and influenced subsequent generations of naval helicopters.
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