Sikorsky CH-53

MH-53J Pave Low III

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The MH-53J's main mission was to drop off, supply, and pick up special forces behind enemy lines.

It also can engage in combat search and rescue missions.

Low-level penetration is made possible by a state-of-the-art terrain following radar, as well as infrared sensors that allow the helicopter to operate in bad weather. It was equipped with armor plating.

It could transport 38 troops at a time and sling up to 20,000 pounds (9,000 kg) of cargo with its external hook.

It was capable of top speeds of 165 mph (266 km/h) and altitudes up to 16,000 feet (4,900 m).

The MH-53M Pave Low IV was modified from the MH-53J configuration with the addition of Interactive Defensive Avionics System/Multi-Mission Advanced Tactical Terminal or IDAS/MATT.

The system enhanced the defensive capabilities of the Pave Low.

It provided instant access to the total battlefield situation, through near real-time Electronic Order of Battle updates.

It also provided a new level of detection avoidance with [Vous devez être inscrit et connecté pour voir ce lien] threat broadcasts [Vous devez être inscrit et connecté pour voir ce lien], so crews can avoid and defeat threats, and replan enroute if needed.

The MH-53 Pave Low's last mission was on 27 September 2008, when the remaining six helicopters flew their last combat missions in support of special operations forces in Southwest Asia.

These MH-53Ms were retired shortly thereafter.

MH 53M

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MH 53M

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