Sikorsky HR2S-1/CH37C Deuce, H37A/CH37B Mojave Heavy-Lift Helicopter (Ginter 9780999388419)

Category Books on aviation, Subcategory US Helicopters, ISBN/Box 9780999388419, Publisher/Brand Ginter, Author Gunther Winkle, Format a4, No. Pages 137, Version Soft cover, Language English

The USMC Deuce was originally designed as a heavy-lift assault helicopter capable of delivering 36 combat troops or equipment (up to two jeeps or field artillery) from ship to shore. It was quickly adapted by the Army which purchased almost twice as many as the Marines. During its early testing it set both speed and weight lifting records for helicopters. Once in service, it was also used to recover small aircraft and other helicopters by both the Army and Marines in Vietnam. Many of its features including its 72 foot main rotor blades were used as the successful basis of its replacement, the CH-53 which is still in use today.