Sikorsky JCH-53E Super Stallion

The Sikorsky JCH‑53E Super Stallion, developed by Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, is the most powerful heavy‑lift helicopter in the United States armed forces. Its origins trace back to the CH‑53 Sea Stallion, a Vietnam‑era transport that first flew in 1964. In the 1970s Sikorsky began a major upgrade program, adding a third turbine engine, a larger rotor system and advanced avionics; the upgraded model entered service as the CH‑53E in 1981 and was later redesignated JCH‑53E for joint service. The Super Stallion features three General Electric T64‑GE‑100 turboshafts delivering a combined 21,000 shaft horsepower, a 24‑blade, 79‑foot fully articulated main rotor, and a reinforced airframe capable of carrying up to 36,000 pounds externally. Its payload capacity enables transport of vehicles such as the M1A1 Abrams tank, artillery, and troops, while built‑in self‑protection systems allow operation in high‑threat environments. Over three decades, the JCH‑53E has supported humanitarian relief, special‑operations missions, and naval amphibious assaults, cementing its role as a versatile platform in modern aviation. Its sheer size, lift capability, and reliability have set a benchmark for future heavy‑lift rotorcraft worldwide. The aircraft continues to undergo incremental upgrades to extend its service life into the next decade.