View source for Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion

{{Short description|1964 transport helicopter family by Sikorsky}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2022}}
{{Use American English|date=July 2022}}
{{Infobox aircraft
 |name= CH-53 Sea Stallion
 |image= File:CH-53D Sea Stallion of HMH-362 in Afghanistan on 26 May 2012.jpg
 |caption= A CH-53D Sea Stallion with [[HMH-362]], lands on [[Forward Operating Base Edinburgh|FOB Edinburgh]], [[Helmand Province]], Afghanistan
 |type= Heavy-lift [[military transport aircraft|cargo helicopter]]
 |national_origin= United States
 |manufacturer= [[Sikorsky Aircraft]]
 |designer=
 |first_flight= YCH-53: 14 October 1964
 |introduction= 1966
 |retired= 2012 (USMC)<ref name="aero-news.net">{{cite web |url = http://www.aero-news.net/index.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=fd3eb1a2-1f29-4218-b5ae-1aaad556447f |title = End of an Era for an Icon of Marine Aviation |publisher = aero-news.net |date = 12 August 2012 |access-date = 15 April 2013}}</ref>
 |status= In service
 |primary_user= [[United States Marine Corps]] (historical)<!-- List only ONE (1) user. Please DON'T add flag icons, as they limit horizontal space. -->
 |more_users= [[German Air Force]] <br />[[Israeli Air Force]] <br />[[Mexican Air Force]] (historical)<!-- Limit is three (3) users in 'more users' field, four (4) total users. Please separate with <br />.-->
 |produced= 1964–1978
 |number_built=
 |developed_from=
 |variants= [[Sikorsky MH-53|HH-53 "Super Jolly Green Giant"/MH-53 Pave Low]]
 |developed_into= [[Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion]] <br /> [[Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion]]
}}

The '''CH-53 Sea Stallion''' ('''Sikorsky S-65''') is a family of American heavy-lift transport [[helicopter]]s designed and built by the American manufacturer [[Sikorsky Aircraft]]. The Sea Stallion was originally developed in response to a request from the [[United States Navy]]'s [[Bureau of Naval Weapons]] made in March 1962 for a replacement for the [[Sikorsky CH-37 Mojave]] helicopters flown by the [[United States Marine Corps]] (USMC).

In July 1962, Sikorsky's proposal, which was essentially a scaled-up [[Sikorsky S-61R|S-61R]] fitted with twin [[General Electric T64]] [[turboshaft]] engines and the dynamic systems of the [[S-64]]/[[CH-54]], was selected. On 14 October 1964, the YCH-53A performed its [[maiden flight]]; the first deliveries of production CH-53s to operational units commenced on 12 September 1966. The first combat use of the type occurred during the following year when it was deployed to the [[Vietnam War|Vietnamese theater]]; the CH-53 quickly proved its value for moving heavy payloads, particularly in the recovery of damaged aircraft.

Several variants of the type were promptly introduced. The [[United States Air Force]] introduced the HH-53 "Super Jolly Green Giant", configured for [[special operations]] and [[combat search and rescue]] (CSAR) missions, during the latter part of the Vietnam War; the majority of these were subsequently rebuilt into the [[Sikorsky MH-53|MH-53 Pave Low]]. The visually similar [[Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion|CH-53E Super Stallion]] is a heavier-lifting improved version of the rotorcraft, designated ''S-80E'' by Sikorsky; its third engine makes it more powerful than the Sea Stallion and thus displaced it for the heavy-lift mission. Furthermore, many early-build CH-53s were refitted with more powerful engines, while others were reconfigured for different mission roles, such as [[Marine One|US presidential flights]], training, and [[Naval mine#Active countermeasures|airborne mine countermeasures]] (AMCM) operations.

Several export deals for the CH-53 were made, leading to several international operators of the type. Among these are Germany, Iran, and Israel. Several unusual or high-profile operations have been undertaken, such as the capture and transportation of a [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] advanced [[radar]] system to Israel under [[Operation Rooster 53]] in 1969, and Iran's capture of five American CH-53s as a result of [[Operation Eagle Claw]] in 1980. Various operators deployed their CH-53s during international missions, often under the auspices of [[NATO]] or the [[United Nations]], such as for [[United Nations Special Commission|UNSCOM]] in Iraq, in Kosovo with [[Kosovo Force]] (KFOR), [[Implementation Force]] (IFOR) in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the [[International Security Assistance Force]] (ISAF) in Afghanistan. While several operators have opted to retain the type into the twenty-first century, many others have opted to supplement or withdraw their Sea Stallions in favor of other platforms, sometimes with the more powerful CH-53E. The CH-53 remains in service with German and Israeli forces, and is one of the largest military helicopters in service. Germany is planning to replace its fleet, as of the 2020s, with the latest version of the twin-rotor [[Boeing CH-47 Chinook|CH-47 Chinook]]. The latest version of the CH-53, the K model King Stallion is in production as of the 2020s entering service with the United States Marine Corps; this is replacing the Super Stallion, itself an upgraded version of Sea Stallion. The heavily upgraded Jolly Green Giant and Pave Low versions of the CH-53 were retired by 2008, flown by the U.S. Air Force for combat search and rescue. Overall, the CH-53 was replaced in many roles by the [[Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey|V-22 Osprey]] tilt rotor in U.S. service.

==Development==

===Origins===
In 1960, the [[United States Marine Corps]] (USMC) began to seek a replacement for their [[Sikorsky CH-37 Mojave|HR2S]] [[Pratt & Whitney R-2800|piston-powered]] helicopters. On 27 January 1961, the USMC began working with the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force on the "Tri-Service VTOL transport", which would eventually emerge as the [[LTV XC-142]] [[tiltwing]].<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> The design became more elaborate and the program stretched out, causing the USMC to drop out when they decided they would not receive a working machine in a satisfactory timeframe. In particular, there were concerns that the high levels of downwash produced by the XC-142A would render shipborne operations impractical.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> In the end, the XC-142A, although a very innovative and capable machine, never entered production.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD">[http://www.airvectors.net/avskbig_1.html#m2l "S-65 Origins / US Marine CH-53A & CH-53D Sea Stallion"]. Airvectors.net, 1 January 2016.</ref>

In March 1962, the [[United States Navy]]'s [[Bureau of Naval Weapons]], acting on behalf of the USMC, issued a request for a "Heavy Helicopter Experimental / {{Not a typo|HH(X)}}".<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> The specifications dictated a load capability of {{convert|8000|lb}} with an operational radius of {{convert|100|nmi}} at a speed of {{convert|150|kn}}. It was also specified to possess a higher top speed and greater lifting capacity than existing helicopters while also having a lower empty weight than preceding designs as well.<ref name = "carter 1965"/> The {{Not a typo|HH(X)}} was to be used in the [[military transport aircraft|assault transport]], aircraft recovery, personnel transport, and [[medical evacuation]] roles.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> In the assault transport role, it was to be mostly used to haul heavy equipment instead of troops.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" />

[[File:Sikorsky YCH-53A 1964.jpg|thumb|upright=1.25|The YCH-53A prototype, 1964]]
In response, [[Boeing Helicopters|Boeing Vertol]] offered a modified version of the [[CH-47 Chinook]]; [[Kaman Aircraft]] offered a development of the British [[Fairey Rotodyne]] compound helicopter; and [[Sikorsky Aircraft|Sikorsky]] offered what amounted to a scaled-up version of the [[Sikorsky S-61R|S-61R]], with twin [[General Electric T64]] [[turboshaft]] engines and the dynamic system of the [[S-64]]/[[CH-54]], to be designated the S-65.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> Kaman's proposal quickly died when the British government dropped its backing of the Rotodyne program. Competition between Boeing Vertol and Sikorsky was intense, with the Chinook having an advantage because it was being acquired by the [[United States Army]].<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" /> During July 1962, it was announced that Sikorsky's bid had been selected as the winner on account of various considerations, including cost, technical factors, and production capability. However, a contract was not immediately forthcoming due to budgetary limitations.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/>

The USMC had originally sought to procure four prototypes.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> However, in light of funding shortfalls, Sikorsky, determined to keep the deal, reduced their estimate for the program's development costs by proposing that development could be performed with only two prototypes. Military officials favorably received the company's proposed reduction; in September 1962, Sikorsky was awarded a $9,965,635 (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=9965635|start_year=1962}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) contract for the production of a pair of YCH-53A prototypes, as well as a mockup and a ground-test airframe.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/>

The development program did not go entirely smoothly, due to a shortage of engineering resources plus various failures of [[subcontractor]]s and the government, but these problems were gradually overcome. There was also pressure against the program from [[United States Secretary of Defense|U.S. Secretary of Defense]] [[Robert S. McNamara]], who promoted the concept of "commonality" between the armed services by adopting the Chinook instead. However, the USMC managed to convince McNamara's staff that the Chinook could not meet their requirements without numerous expensive changes.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" />

The first YCH-53A performed its initial flight at the Sikorsky plant in [[Stratford, Connecticut]], on 14 October 1964, about four months behind schedule.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> During the previous month, the USMC had already placed an initial production contract for 16 helicopters. Flight trials went more smoothly than expected, helping make up for the time lost in development; on 19 November 1964, the type was formally introduced to the general public.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> Around this time, it received the military designation and name ''CH-53A Sea Stallion''. On 12 September 1966, the first deliveries of the CH-53 to an operational unit occurred.<ref name="Frawley Military">Frawley 2002, p. 148.</ref><ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/>

===Further development===
[[File:CH-53A USMC in flight in the 1960s.jpeg|thumb|left|USMC CH-53A]]
The CH-53A arrived in [[Vietnam War|Vietnam]] in January 1967 and proved useful, eventually recovering even more downed aircraft than the [[Sikorsky CH-54 Tarhe|CH-54]]. A total of 141 CH-53As were built, including the two prototypes.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" /> The U.S. Navy acquired 15 CH-53As from the USMC in 1971 for [[Naval mine#Active countermeasures|airborne mine countermeasures]] (AMCM) activities. The helicopters had more powerful T64-GE-413 turboshafts installed and received the designation ''RH-53A''.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" />

The [[United States Air Force]] ordered the [[MH-53 Pave Low|HH-53B]] in September 1966 and it first flew on 15 March 1967. It added a refueling probe, drop fuel tanks and a rescue hoist; it also featured upgraded T64-GE-3 engines. The Air Force used the HH-53B for [[Search and rescue#Combat search and rescue|combat search and rescue]] (CSAR).<ref name="Donald">Donald, David, ed. "Sikorsky S-65". ''The Complete Encyclopedia of World Aircraft''. Barnes & Noble Books, 1997. {{ISBN|0-7607-0592-5}}.</ref> HH-53C was an improved CSAR variant with a smaller {{convert|450|USgal|L}} fuel tank in exchange for more armor and better communication systems. The CH-53C was similar except it lacked a refueling probe. It was used by the USAF for more general transport work.<ref name="Vector_HH-53">{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20040608234615/http://www.vectorsite.net/avskbig.html#m4 USAF HH-53B, HH-53C, & CH-53C]}}, Vectorsite.net, 1 May 2006.</ref>

[[File:CH-53Ds landing.jpg|thumb|[[HMH-362]] CH-53Ds landing]]
Heavy lifting in [[Köppen climate classification#Group A: Tropical/megathermal climates|tropical climates]] demanded more power, so the USMC decided to acquire an improved variant, the CH-53D, with uprated engines, originally the T64-GE-412 then later the T64-GE-413. The CH-53D also included an uprated transmission to go with the more powerful engines, and a revised interior to permit a load of 55 troops.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" />

The initial flight of the CH-53D was on 27 January 1969. The CH-53D served alongside the CH-53A through the rest of the Vietnam War. A VIP transport version designated ''VH-53D'' with plush accommodations was used by the USMC for the US presidential flights.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" /> The US Navy also acquired CH-53D-based helicopters for [[minesweeping]]. These were designated ''RH-53D'' and included mine sweeping gear such as a pair of [[0.50 BMG]] (12.7&nbsp;mm) [[M2 Browning machine gun#Aircraft guns|Browning machine guns]] for detonating mines. The Navy received 30 RH-53Ds beginning in 1973. After the RH-53Ds were in service, the RH-53As were handed back to the USMC and restored to CH-53A configuration.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" />

During the 1980s, [[Israeli Air Force]]'s CH-53 ''Yas'ur'' fleet was upgraded by [[Israel Aircraft Industries]] and [[Elbit Systems]]. The project – which ended only in 1997 – improved the CH-53 avionics, robustness and extended its life span by at least two decades.

In 1989, some of the CH-53As being retired by the USMC were passed on to the U.S. Air Force for training, with these helicopters redesignated ''TH-53As''. The TH-53As were stripped of most operational equipment and painted in USAF [[Military camouflage|camouflage]] colors.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" />

==Design==
[[File:USMC-07169.jpg|thumb|CH-53E Super Stallion recovers a disabled UH-60]]

The Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion is a heavy lift military transport helicopter. The CH-53A carries a crew of four; pilot, copilot, crew chief, and an [[aerial observer]]. It can carry various payloads, including up to 38 fully-equipped troops, 24 [[Litter (rescue basket)|litters]] with medical attendants, an internal cargo load of {{convert|8000|lb}}, or an external load of {{convert|13000|lb}} on the single-point sling hook.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> Access to the main cabin is via the large passenger door on the right side of the fuselage behind the cockpit, as well as by a power-operated loading ramp to the rear.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD"/> This loading ramp was capable of facilitating drive-on loading operations, enabling quicker cargo movements. The CH-53A was designed to have a useful payload capacity, in terms of weight, of almost half of the rotorcraft's empty weight.<ref name = "carter 1965"/>

It is provisioned with mechanical flight controls, which are backed by three independent [[Hydraulics|hydraulic]] systems.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD"/> As noted by Sikorsky engineer Edward S Carter Junior, the rotorcraft could be equipped to facilitate all-weather operations.<ref name = "carter 1965"/> It shares a somewhat similar fuselage design, albeit on a substantially larger scale, with the Sikorsky S-61R series. While the Sea Stallion's fuselage is watertight, the helicopter is not intended for amphibious use and its ability to land on water is meant to only be used in emergency situations. To save space, which is normally at a premium on board most naval vessels, both the tail boom and the rotors can be folded while the helicopter is stowed; to reduce the workload involved in this process, an automated folding system was developed by Sikorsky.<ref name = "carter 1965"/> Both the crew and vital systems are protected by armoring across key areas. All of the fuel was housed within [[sponson]]s on either side of the fuselage.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> The CH-53A was typically equipped with a pair of [[7.62×51mm NATO]] [[M60 machine gun]]s that point out to each side of the fuselage.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD"/>

The CH-53A features a fully-articulated six-bladed main rotor and four-bladed tail rotor.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> According to Carter, the relatively high speed requirement stipulated by the USMC was the primary factor shaping the dynamic design.<ref name = "carter 1965"/> While the Sea Stallion's dynamic systems were largely derived from those used on the earlier Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane, substantial reengineering were also involved due to the vastly different operating requirements. Extensive use of [[titanium]] was made across its dynamic components, particularly for elements that may have been susceptible to degradation over time due to [[metal fatigue]].<ref name = "carter 1965">{{cite journal |url = https://arc.aiaa.org/doi/pdf/10.2514/3.43679 |title = Technological contributions of the ch-53a transport helicopter development program |journal = Journal of Aircraft |volume = 2 |number = 5 |first = Edward S. Jr. |last = Carter |date = September 1965|pages = 430–436 |doi = 10.2514/3.43679 |url-access = subscription }}</ref> Initially, the CH-53 was powered by a pair of General Electric T64-6 turboshaft engines, each of which provided up to {{convert|2850|shp|lk=on}}. These engines were located on the upper fuselage. Later engines included the T64-1, capable of generating up to {{convert|3080|shp|abbr=on}}, and the T64-16, which was rated for up to {{convert|3485|shp|abbr=on}}.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD"/> The HH-53B model featured T64-3 engines, which produced up to {{convert|3080|shp|abbr=on}}.<ref name="Vector_HH-53"/>

[[File:USMC-07103.jpg|thumb|CH-53D engine maintenance]]
The improved CH-53D features uprated engines, initially using the T64-GE-412 that could provide up to {{convert|3695|shp|abbr=on}}, then the T64-413 with its further elevated output of {{convert|3925|shp|abbr=on}}; these more powerful engines necessitated the use of an uprated transmission. Interior changes included additional seats, which allowed for up to 55 troops to be carried at a time. The CH-53D is generally armed with twin [[.50 BMG]] (12.7&nbsp;mm) [[M2 Browning machine gun#AN/M2 and AN/M3|M2]]/[[M2 Browning machine gun#XM213/M213, XM218, GAU-15/A, GAU-16/A, and GAU-18/A|XM218]] [[M2 Browning machine gun|machine guns]]. During the type's later years of service, it has become commonplace for CH-53Ds to have been retrofitted with various defensive countermeasures; such apparatus has often included an AN/ALE-39 [[Chaff (radar countermeasure)|chaff]] dispenser and an [[ALQ-144|AN/ALQ-157]] [[Infrared countermeasures|infrared countermeasure]].<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD"/>

Later production CH-53Ds featured a [[Blade Inspection Method]] (BIM) scheme to detect cracks in its metal rotors. BIM involved pressurizing the interior of the rotor blades with [[nitrogen]]. If a crack is present pressure is lost and a red indicator on the rotor blade tip was tripped. Later, the BIM system was connected to a cockpit display. BIM reduced the need to routinely swap rotor blades.<ref name="Vector_CH-53AD" />

==Operational history==

===United States===
[[File:A CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopter transports a piece of equipment during the multinational joint service Exercise BRIGHT STAR '85 - DPLA - a49c6a904dfa289f31b86a6c223e2cab.jpeg|thumb|Sea Stallion during BRIGHT STAR '85 exercise]]

The CH-53/HH-53 has seen considerable use in warzones and served in various conflict during its service. It was first used in the Vietnam War, often recovering downed aircraft and evacuating personnel. The CH-53D served alongside the CH-53A through the latter portion of the US's presence in Vietnam; both types played a critical role at the end of the conflict, performing evacuations of personnel during [[Operation Frequent Wind]].<ref name=Dunham>{{Cite book |last = Dunham |first = George R |title = U.S. Marines in Vietnam: The Bitter End, 1973–1975 (Marine Corps Vietnam Operational Historical Series) |publisher = History and Museums Division Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps |year = 1990 |isbn = 978-0-16-026455-9}}{{PD-notice}}</ref>

U.S. Air Force HH-53 Super Jolly Green Giants were the primary search-and-rescue helicopter in Southeast Asia between 1967 and 1975, inserted the [[Operation Ivory Coast]] rescue team into the [[North Vietnam]]ese [[Son Tay prison camp|prison camp]] at [[Son Tay]] in 1970, and carried the USMC and Air Force Security Forces who attempted to rescue the crew of [[Mayaguez incident|SS ''Mayagüez'']].<ref>Gargus 2007, pp. 284-288.</ref><ref name=Dunham/><ref name="Wetterhahn">Wetterhahn 2002, p. 26.</ref> Marine-flown Navy Sea Stallions were the rotary-wing element of [[Operation Eagle Claw]], the attempted rescue of American hostages in Iran in 1980 that ended in disaster and embarrassment at "Desert One".{{sfnp|Carter|1982|p=519}}<ref name=Buck>{{cite book |last1 = Buck |first1 = Peter |year = 2015 |title = The Iranian Hostage Rescue Attempt: A Case Study |publisher = Pickle Partners |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=mSZvCwAAQBAJ&q=nimitz |isbn = 978-1782899686}}</ref> Marine CH-53s were used in [[Grenada]] during [[Operation Urgent Fury]].<ref name=Kreisher>{{cite web |last1 = Kreisher |first1 = Otto |title = Operation URGENT FURY – Grenada |url = https://www.mca-marines.org/leatherneck/operation-urgent-fury-grenada |publisher = Marine Corps Association & Foundation |access-date = 6 April 2016 |archive-date = 19 April 2016 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160419110427/https://www.mca-marines.org/leatherneck/operation-urgent-fury-Grenada |url-status = dead}}</ref>
[[File:US Navy 030306-N-4048T-051 An CH-53 Sea Stallion makes its approach for a landing on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge.jpg|left|thumb|CH-53E Super Stallion landing on a ship, 2003]]

The CH-53 was operated by the Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy in support of [[Operation Iraqi Freedom]]. It is also operated by all three services in support of [[Operation Enduring Freedom]] in Afghanistan. It was in the Afghan theatre than the final operational missions of the CH-53D fleet were performed during February 2012.<ref>[http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/us-marine-corps-retires-ch-53d/ "US Marine Corps retires CH-53D"]. Rotorhub, 24 February 2012.</ref>

On 17 September 2007, [[VMM-263]] of the USMC was deployed with ten [[V-22 Osprey|MV-22B Ospreys]], a [[tiltrotor]] aircraft.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.navair.navy.mil/v22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=191 |first=Dave |last=Montgomery |title=1st squadron of V-22s quietly deployed to Iraq |work=[[Naval Air Systems Command]] |publisher=United States Navy |date=19 September 2007 |access-date=2008-12-01 |archive-date=27 July 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090727122730/http://www.navair.navy.mil/v22/index.cfm?fuseaction=news.detail&id=191 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The V-22 has been the primary replacement for the USMC's fleets of CH-53Ds and [[CH-46 Sea Knight|CH-46E Sea Knights]], but not the more powerful [[CH-53E Super Stallion|CH-53Es]]; instead, the in-development [[Sikorsky CH-53K|CH-53K]] is planned to supplant the Navy and USMC CH-53E fleets.<ref>[http://www.sikorsky.com/sik/about_sikorsky/news/2006/20060405_1.asp "Sikorsky Awarded $3.0B Development Contract For Marine Corps CH-53K Heavy-Lift Helicopter"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081127210324/http://www.sikorsky.com/sik/about_sikorsky/news/2006/20060405_1.asp |date=27 November 2008 }}. Sikorsky Aircraft, 5 April 2006.</ref><ref>[http://www.defenselink.mil/transformation/articles/2006-01/ta010906a.html "New Heavy Lift Helicopter Starts Development"]. U.S. Marine Corps, 9 January 2006.</ref>
[[File:Marine One (3379682852).jpg|thumb|CH-53E as Marine One, 2009]]
During September 2011, [[HMH-463]] replaced its CH-53Ds with CH-53Es. [[HMH-363]] and [[HMH-362]] are to operate D-models until the squadrons are deactivated. Both units are to be reactivated as MV-22 and CH-53K squadrons respectively. Several CH-53D helicopters will be retained for the [[3rd Marine Regiment]] for training.<ref name="CH-53D replacement">{{cite news |title = Hawaii move marks the end for vintage CH-53s |author = Gidget Fuentes |url = http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2011/09/marine-hawaii-farewell-to-ch53d-sea-stallion-helicopter-092711w/ |newspaper = [[Army Times]] |date = 26 September 2011 |access-date = 26 September 2011 |url-status = dead |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110930162512/http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2011/09/marine-hawaii-farewell-to-ch53d-sea-stallion-helicopter-092711w |archive-date = 30 September 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.marines.mil/unit/mcascherrypoint/Pages/110911Sundown.aspx |title = Marine Corps squadron flies final tour with Vietnam-era helicopter in Afghanistan |access-date = 20 March 2012 |archive-date = 16 November 2011 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20111116031958/http://www.marines.mil/unit/mcascherrypoint/Pages/110911Sundown.aspx |url-status = dead }}</ref> HMH-362 retired the last CH-53Ds after its combat deployment in August 2012 and decommissioned in November 2012.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.dvidshub.net/news/98948/ugly-angels-deactivate-after-60-years-service |title = "Ugly Angels" deactivate after 60 years of service |website = dvidshub.net |access-date = 27 March 2018}}</ref>

===Israel===
In August 1968, an Israeli Air Force (IAF) delegation visited Sikorsky's Connecticut plant while seeking information to select the service's next assault helicopter.<ref name= "IAF offhist"/> The delegation was looking for a helicopter with augmented payload carry capacity, highly maneuverable and robust, that could survive direct hits from different caliber projectiles. They examined Boeing's CH-47 Chinook and Sikorsky's CH-53, it was recognised that the latter was both larger and stronger than any of the IAF's other helicopters, and thus represented a major advancement in terms of capability. Based upon experience gained from the intense combat of the then-recently fought [[Six-Day War]], the delegation opted to favor the CH-53.<ref name= "IAF offhist">{{cite web |url= https://www.iaf.org.il/208-en/IAF.aspx |title= Sikorsky CH-53 ("Yas'ur" (Petrel)) |publisher= Israeli Air Force |accessdate= 28 March 2021}}</ref>

[[File:CH-53.jpg|thumb|Israeli Air Force CH-53 Yas'ur 2025 lifting a [[Unit 669]] soldier with a stretcher]]
On 2 October 1969, the first S-65C-3 (CH-53D) helicopters were delivered to Israel of an initial order of seven.<ref name= "sikarchive s-65"/> At the time, the country was engaged in the [[War of Attrition]], and thus the type was quickly dispatched into combat. Receiving the Hebrew name ''Yas'ur'' ([[Petrel]]), a further 35 helicopter were delivered to fulfil subsequent orders.<ref name= "sikarchive s-65"/> On 6 August 1970, the first Yas'ur squadron was established. For several decades, the type has served as the primary cargo helicopters of the IAF, being routinely used to carry both troops and heavy equipment.{{citation needed|date=December 2024}}

In 1969, during the War of Attrition, IAF CH-53s landed in Egypt and conveyed a captured [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] advanced [[radar]] system back to Israel for examination by Israeli scientists and engineers (see ''[[Operation Rooster 53]]'').<ref>[https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/History/Rooster.html Operation “Rooster”— Israel Captures Egyptian Radar In War of Attrition]. ''Jewish Virtual Library''. Retrieved 16 March 2008.</ref> The Yas'ur was also used in various other capacities during the conflict, including the retrieval of a navigator from a downed IAF [[McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II|F-4 Phantom II]] under sustained enemy fire on 30 June 1970.<ref name= "IAF offhist"/>

[[File:Flickr - Israel Defense Forces - Iron Trails Reconnaissance Company Conducts Major Exercise.jpg|thumb|left|Israel Defense Forces Iron Trails Reconnaissance Company troops exit a CH-53 during an exercise]]
During the 1973 [[Yom Kippur War]], the Yas'ur routinely moved [[artillery]] batteries and for the insertion of IDF units around the fronts. The type was also used to evacuate hundreds of wounded soldiers and rescued pilots from behind enemy lines in both Egypt and Syria.<ref name= "IAF offhist"/> In one engagement, a single Yas'ur was attacked by multiple aircraft, including a pair of [[MiG-21]]s; while sustaining damage, it was still able to return to base. Since 1973, Yas'urs have also been used by the IDF to land and extract [[Sayeret]] commandos on raids and patrols deep behind enemy lines in Lebanon Syria and the greater Middle East.<ref name= "IAF offhist"/>

During the 1980s, Israel Aircraft Industries, along with Elbit Systems, commenced a major upgrade program for the IAF Yas'ur fleet. The project, which was completed in 1997, improved the CH-53's avionics and increased its robustness, as well as extending the fleet's operating life by at least two decades.{{citation needed|date=December 2024}}

Several Yas'urs were used to perform [[Aerial firefighting|firefight]]ing operations on and around [[1989 Mount Carmel forest fire]]. They performed dozens of low flyovers into the smoke and flames, dumped 700 tons of water on the fire, and doused it. On 8 November 1992, a pair of CH-53s performed one of the IAF's longest-distance sea rescue operations to retrieve passenger from the distressed yacht ''Fantasy 2'' off the coast of [[Sudan]].<ref name= "IAF offhist"/>

During the [[2006 Lebanon War]], [[Hezbollah]] shot down an Israeli CH-53 Yas'ur with an anti-tank missile, killing five air crew members.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.jpost.com/Defense/Article.aspx?id=233506 |title=Security and Defense: Coordinating capabilities |work=The Jerusalem Post|date=12 August 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2006/08/22/208558/israel-studies-ch-53-shoot-down.html |title=Israel studies CH-53 shoot-down |work=FlightGlobal |date=6 August 2006}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Hezbollah’s Creative Tactical Use of Anti-Tank Weaponry |url=https://jamestown.org/program/hezbollahs-creative-tactical-use-of-anti-tank-weaponry/ |access-date=2025-04-30 |website=jamestown.org |language=en-US}}</ref> This was reportedly the only combat loss of an Israeli CH-53 during this conflict.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3290239,00.html |title= Hizbullah shoots down helicopter in southern Lebanon |publisher=Ynet|first= Hanan |last= Greenberg |date= 12 August 2006}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | last1=Cordesman | first1=A.H. | last2=Sullivan | first2=W.D. | last3=Sullivan | first3=G. | title=Lessons of the 2006 Israeli-Hezbollah War | publisher=CSIS Press | series=Significant issues series | year=2007 | isbn=978-0-89206-505-9 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ela6DjyEBQwC | page=122 | quote=However, the IAF lost only one aircraft in combat and four in accidents. Three AH-64 Apaches were lost. One, a AH-64 Longbow that was lost as a result of a technical problem, and two AH-64 were lost in a midair collision caused by pilot error. An F-16 crashed during takeoff after a tire failure. The only combat loss was a CH-53 transport helicopter that have just unloaded troops and was struck during take off by a Chinese QW-1 light SAM}}</ref>

On 16 August 2012, the IAF temporarily grounded its CH-53 fleet following one having experienced in-flight difficulties that led to an emergency landing; initial reports state the issue was related to the rotor blades.<ref>Egozi, Arie. [http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israeli-air-force-grounds-ch-53-fleet-after-emergency-landing-375598/ "Israeli air force grounds CH-53 fleet after emergency landing."] ''Flight International'', 17 August 2012.</ref> The fleet was again grounded for three weeks after a CH-53 was destroyed by a fire during a training exercise; the IAF subsequently attributed this loss to a defective component and blamed [[Lockheed Martin]] for failing to communicate the issue.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://verticalmag.com/news/israel-faults-lockheed-ch53-fire/ |title= Israel faults relay switch, Lockheed for CH-53 fire |publisher= verticalmag.com |first= Arie |last= Egozi |date= 21 March 2020}}</ref>

[[File:IAF-CH-53-Yasur-2025--Independence-Day-2017-Tel-Nof-IZE-151.jpg|thumb|IAF CH-53-2025 Yas'ur on display at Tel-Nof airbase, during Israel's 69th Independence Day (2017)]]
During 2015, it was announced that Israel planned to withdraw the last of its Yasurs around 2025.<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israeli-air-force-looks-for-lift-from-ch-53k-415528/ Israeli air force looks for lift from CH-53K] ''FlightGlobal'', 10 August 2015.</ref> Replacement options studied included the CH-53K and the CH-47F Chinook, with a prospective order for approximately 20 helicopters being placed for the preferred option.<ref>{{cite web |last1= Ahronheim |first1= Anna |title= Two Defense Companies Compete to Replace Israel's Heavy-Lift Helicopters |url= https://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Two-defense-companies-compete-to-replace-Israels-heavy-lift-helicopters-501416 |website= The Jerusalem Post |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180207090011/http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Two-defense-companies-compete-to-replace-Israels-heavy-lift-helicopters-501416 |archive-date= 7 February 2018 |date= 2 August 2018 |url-status= live}}</ref> During February 2021, the [[Ministry of Defense (Israel)|Israeli Ministry of Defense]] announced the selection of the CH-53K to replace the Yasur fleet.<ref>{{cite web |title= Israel selects CH-53K King Stallion as the IDF's new transport helicopter |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/israel-selects-ch-53k-king-stallion-as-the-idfs-new-transport-helicopter/ |access-date= 25 February 2021 |website= The Times of Israel |language= en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date= 25 February 2021 |title= IDF approves use of CH-53K King Stallion as its new cargo helicopter |url= https://www.ynetnews.com/article/BySIUUrGu |publisher= Ynet |language= en |last1= Zitun |first1= Yoav }}</ref>

On 7 October 2023, during the first day of the [[Gaza war]], and the first time since the 2006 Lebanon War in a similar incident, [[Hamas]] shot down an IAF CH-53 with [[9M133 Kornet|Kornet]] anti-tank  missile and hitting its left engine, while carrying about 50 [[Paratroopers Brigade|paratroopers]] (a very unusual procedure, as opposed to the approved IAF's max capacity of 33 troops).<ref>[https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/346569 "ASN Wikibase Occurrence # 346569"]. Aviation Safety Network.</ref> The pilot managed to land safely in an open field, offloading both the aircrew and the paratroopers. The CH-53 was then hit by a second anti-tank missile, completely destroying the helicopter. The occupants survived the attack with minor to medium injuries.<ref>[https://sky-high.co.il/2021/07/26/%d7%99%d7%a1%d7%a2%d7%95%d7%a8-2025-%d7%9e%d7%a1-985-%d7%a7%d7%95%d7%a0%d7%93%d7%95%d7%a8/ "Yas'ur 2025 #985 "Condor"] (from Hebrew). sky-high.co.il.</ref><ref>Channel 12 News program "Uvda" story: ''[https://www.mako.co.il/mako-vod-keshet/uvda-2023/shorts/Video-6a9a1eb65794b81026.htm "The warriors from the aircraft that almost crashed speak"]'' (from Hebrew). Mako.</ref><ref>[https://www.timesofisrael.com/helicopter-carrying-israeli-troops-to-south-after-hamas-assault-was-hit-by-explosive/ "Helicopter carrying Israeli troops to south after Hamas assault was hit by explosive" ]. The Times of Israel, 15 October 2023</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=admin |date=2023-10-14 |title=Israeli CH-53 "Yasur" Helicopter Destroyed by Palestinian Fighters |url=https://defencesecurityasia.com/en/ch53-helicopter-palestine/ |access-date=2025-04-30 |website=Defence Security Asia |language=en-GB}}</ref>

===Iran===
[[File:Navy of Iran Sikorsky CH-53.jpg|thumb|An Iranian Sea Stallion in the 1970s]]

During the 1970s, an initial fleet of six RH-53D Sea Stallions was delivered to the [[History of the Iranian Navy|Imperial Iranian Navy]] (IIN).  Following the [[Iranian Revolution]] in 1979, the Sea Stallions continued in service with the renamed [[Islamic Republic of Iran Navy]] (IRIN).<ref name="Frawley Military"/> These were supplemented by five U.S. Navy examples that were abandoned during [[Operation Eagle Claw]] in 1980.<ref>[http://www.helis.com/database/model/418/ RH-53D Production List] Retrieved 28 April 2012.</ref> Despite US [[Sanctions against Iran|sanctions]] that have blocked the nation from acquiring spares and support from overseas, Iran has reportedly been able to keep at least a portion of their Sea Stallions in an operational condition; this effort has been aided by illegal exports of controlled parts to Iran by US citizens.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/director-singapore-firm-sentenced-illegally-exporting-controlled-aircraft-components-iran |title = Director of Singapore Firm Sentenced for Illegally Exporting Controlled Aircraft Components to Iran |publisher = justice.gov |date = 5 November 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://medium.com/war-is-boring/iran-plans-to-use-captured-american-copter-against-u-s-994cb33803bf |title = Iran Plans to Use Captured American Copter Against U.S. |publisher = medium.com |date = 22 February 2014}}</ref>

===Germany===
[[File:Mittlerer Transporthubschrauber CH 53 G.jpg|left|thumb|Heer CH-53G flying in the Alps, 2005]]

In 1966, the German military evaluated both the CH-53 and CH-47 as a replacement for the [[Piasecki H-21|H-21]] and [[Sikorsky H-34|H-34G]] helicopters with an initial requirement for 133.<ref name="krueger" /> The purchase of the CH-53 was approved in June 1968 but due to budget constraints only 110 were ordered.<ref name="krueger" /> Following the delivery in 1969 of two pre-production helicopters from Sikorsky the production aircraft were licence built by [[VFW-Fokker]] at [[Speyer]] in Germany.<ref name="krueger" /> The first German-built CH-53G Mittlerer Transporthubschrauber helicopter flew from Speyer on 11 October 1971 and was delivered to the [[Bundeswehr Technical and Airworthiness Center for Aircraft|Erprobungsstelle der Bundeswehr 61]] flight test center at [[Manching]] on 1 December 1971.<ref name="krueger" />

The [[German Army Aviation Corps]] received 110 type CH-53Gs, derivatives of the CH-53D, between 1971 and 1975. 108 helicopters were built in Germany by VFW-Fokker. The first flight by a German CH-53G was made in 1971, followed in March 1973 by the delivery of the first machines to Heeresfliegerregiment (HFlgRgt, Army Aviation Corps Regiment) 35 in [[Mendig]], and shortly afterwards to the newly formed Army Aviation Corps Regiment 15 based at [[Rheine Air Base|Rheine]] and Army Aviation Corps Regiment 25 based at [[Laupheim Air Base|Laupheim]].{{citation needed|date=July 2019}}

[[File:2019-06-15 151618 Tag der Bundeswehr Sikorsky CH-53.jpg|thumb|Bundeswehr CH-53G, 2019]]
To meet ever more demanding specifications, over time the CH-53G received modifications from 1990 designed to improve its service life and operational capabilities. These involved three major upgrades: new missile warning and self-protection systems; provision for two external fuel tanks allowing range to be increased to {{convert|1800|km|mi|abbr=on|order=flip}} when carrying 36 armed soldiers or a {{convert|5500|kg|lb|abbr=on|adj=on|order=flip}} payload; and addition of a [[night vision goggles]]-compatible cockpit for night low-level flying capabilities. All CH-53Gs were upgraded by Eurocopter Germany by early 2001, resulting in updated GS/GE/GA variants. As a result of foreign military operations 20 CH-53G helicopters were converted to perform Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) missions. Version CH-53GS is equipped with modernized IFR equipment, additional exterior fuel tanks, low-flight night vision cockpit and NVG, partial ballistic protection, engine dust collectors, missile counter measure and self-defence armament. Additionally the original engines were replaced by the more powerful T64-100 engines.{{citation needed|date=July 2019}}

[[File:84+99 German Army Sikorsky CH-53G Super Stallion ILA Berlin 2016 06.jpg|thumb|left|[[German Army]] CH-53G at [[ILA Berlin Air Show|ILA]] 2016]]
German Army Aviation Corps units have carried out a wide range of international missions under the auspices of [[NATO]] and the UN, providing transport for members of [[United Nations Special Commission|UNSCOM]] in Iraq, serving in Kosovo with [[Kosovo Force|KFOR]], with [[Implementation Force (IFOR)|IFOR]] in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and more recently with [[International Security Assistance Force|ISAF]] in Afghanistan.{{citation needed|date=July 2019}} On 1 January 2013, all Army Aviation Corps CH-53Gs were transferred to the [[German Air Force]] and incorporated into [[Helicopter Wing 64]].<ref>{{Cite news |last = Ray |first = Roland |title = Wir wollen Ihnen eine neue militärische Heimat bieten |newspaper = Schwäbische Zeitung |date = 14 December 2012 |language = de |url = http://www.schwaebische.de/region/biberach-ulm/laupheim/stadtnachrichten-laupheim_artikel,-Wir-wollen-Ihnen-eine-neue-militaerische-Heimat-bieten-_arid,5364026.html |access-date = 6 January 2013}}</ref>

During the 2010s, Germany was reportedly considering options for replacing its aging CH-53G fleet, with candidates including the Chinook and the [[Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion|CH-53K]] model. On 29 September 2020, the German Ministry of Defense cancelled the "Schwerer Transporthubschrauber" (STH) heavy-lifting helicopter program for 45 to 60 helicopters after the initiative was judged to be too expensive and stated that its CH-53Gs fleet would be replaced following a period of reexamination.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2020/01/14/lockheed-boeing-enter-germanys-heavy-transport-helicopter-race/ |title = Lockheed, Boeing enter Germany's heavy transport helicopter race |publisher = defensenews.com |first = Sebastian |last = Sprenger |date = 14 January 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/36802/germany-axes-plan-to-buy-either-sikorsky-ch-53k-or-boeing-ch-47-helicopters |title = Germany Axes Plan To Buy Either Sikorsky CH-53K Or Boeing CH-47 Helicopters |publisher = thedrive.com |first = Thomas |last = Newdick |date = 29 September 2020}}</ref> In 2022, the Federal Government announced that all of Germany's CH-53s would be replaced by 60 CH-47Fs.<ref>{{Citation|title = Twitter Germany in USA|date = 5 July 2023|language = en|url = https://twitter.com/GermanyinUSA/status/1676664464215625739|access-date = 5 July 2023}}</ref>

===Austria===
[[File:Sikorsky S-65Oe (S-65C-2), Austria - Air Force AN1828200.jpg|right|thumb|A S-65Ö of the [[Austrian Air Force]] parked at [[RAF Greenham Common]] in 1974]]
During 1970, a pair of S-65C-2 or S-65Ö (equivalent to the CH-53D standard, albeit without the aerial refuelling probe) helicopters were delivered to Austria. Intended primarily to perform airborne rescue operations in the [[Alps]], they were assigned to 1st Helicopter Wing of the [[Austrian Air Force]], making the service the second foreign operator of the CH-53.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65"/> Their equipment included same rescue hoist as the HH-53 and fittings for auxiliary fuel tanks and accommodation for 38 passengers. Although they performed well in high altitude operations, the type's relatively high operating costs were a major contributing factor in Austria's decision to sell both rotorcraft to Israel in 1981.<ref name = "sikarchive s-65">{{cite web |url = https://www.sikorskyarchives.com/S-65H-53D%20SEA%20STALLION.php |title = S-65/H-53A/D Sea Stallion/ H-53E Super Stallion |publisher = sikorskyarchives.com |accessdate = 28 March 2021}}</ref> However, since the [[1999 Galtür avalanche]], in which over 7000 thousand people had transported by international collaboration of helicopter resources from Austria, USA, German, France, and Switzerland including 50 helicopters, more helicopter resources have been pursued.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BBC News {{!}} Europe {{!}} Avalanche rescuers find girl's body |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/287341.stm |access-date=2024-04-03 |website=news.bbc.co.uk}}</ref>

===Mexico===
During 2003, the [[Fuerza Aérea Mexicana]] (FAM) acquired four surplus CH-53D Sea Stallions from Israel at a combined cost of $25 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=25000000|start_year=2003}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}).<ref>{{cite web |url = https://archivo.eluniversal.com.mx/nacion/137780.html |title = Entrega Israel a Mexico helicopteros militares |work = El Universal |location = Mexico City |first = Jorge Alejandro |last = Medellin |date = 27 April 2006}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.haaretz.com/1.4802554 |title = Mexico Buys 2 Missile Ships, 4 Choppers, for $90m |work = Haaretz |first = Amnon |last = Barzilai |date = 19 December 2003}}</ref> Prior to their delivery in 2005, all helicopters were upgraded to the Yasur 2000 standard. Due to restricted budgets, only two were actually operated by 104th Air Squadron, while the other pair served as a source of spare parts. Their initial missions were troop transport and commando insertion, but their principal mission was subsequently changed to performing rescue and disaster relief operations, being relocated to BAM 8 at [[Yucatán]]. By 2013, all examples had been permanently withdrawn from service.<ref name="Roa 2015">{{cite web |url = https://www.infodefensa.com/latam/2015/11/21/noticia-desmantelan-helicoptero-sedena-donado-estado-hidalgo.html |title = Desmentelan un helicopter CH-53 de la Sedenna donado al Estado de Hidalgo |publisher = infodefensa.com |first = Adrian |last = Roa |date = 21 November 2015}}</ref>

===Civil use===
During 2007, the first commercially owned CH-53D was being converted by the Californian company Heavy Lift Helicopters into a firefighting configuration, which was referred to by the firm as the ''Fire Stallion'' Having acquired a batch of six ex-military CH-53Ds, the company planned to make them available for hire by other operators; in addition to fire-fighting, construction work and general transport duties were envisioned for the fleet.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2007-01-31/heavy-lift-fire-stallions-ready-firefighting-duty |title = Heavy Lift 'Fire Stallions' ready for firefighting duty |publisher = ainonline.com |first = Kim |last = Rosenlof |date = 31 January 2007}}</ref> While the fleet reportedly flew for a handful of years, they entered storage after only a short period of use due to component shortages.<ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.airattackmag.com/the-saga-of-the-ch-53d-fire-stallions |title = The Saga of the CH-53D 'FIRE STALLIONS' |publisher = airattackmag.com |first = Michael |last = Archer |date = 23 August 2020}}</ref>

==Variants==
{{about|CH-53A, D, G, and related variants|HH-53/MH-53|Sikorsky MH-53|CH-53E|Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion|CH-53K|Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion}}
[[File:Marine CH-53D Sea Stallion.jpg|thumb|USMC CH-53D taxiing at Al-Asad Airbase, Iraq, June 2006]]
[[File:HMX-1 VH53.jpg|thumb|USMC VH-53D used by [[HMX-1]]]]
[[File:German CH-53 Helicopter assigned to the Stabilization Force and Portuguese Army Soldiers.jpg|thumb|CH-53G of the German Army Aviation Corps during an exercise in Bosnia, April 2002]]

;YCH-53A: Two prototypes with two {{convert|2850|shp|abbr=on}} T64-GE-3 engines.

;CH-53A: Initial production variant for the USMC. 139 built.

;RH-53A: CH-53A re-engined with two {{convert|3925|shp|abbr=on}} T64-GE-413 engines as Airborne Mine CounterMeasures (AMCM) variants for the [[United States Navy]]. 15 conversions.

;TH-53A: Stripped CH-53As used for training by the [[United States Air Force]].

;CH-53D: CH-53A with an improved transmission, larger cabin for 55 troops and automatic rotor blade folding for the [[United States Marine Corps]], 126 built.

;RH-53D: United States Navy AMCM variant of the CH-53D, fitted with 0.50-inch caliber machine guns and provision for air refueling. 30 built for the USN. Six examples were also exported to Iran, before the [[Iranian Revolution]] in 1979.<ref name="Frawley Military"/> This version can carry {{convert|11340|kg|lb|abbr=on|order=flip}} of cargo with cargo hook.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/aircraft/rh-53d.htm|title=RH-53D|author=John Pike|work=globalsecurity.org}}</ref>

;VH-53D: Four modified CH-53Ds for [[HMX-1|USMC VIP transport]].{{citation needed|date=December 2024}}

;VH-53F: Six unbuilt VIP helicopters for the US Navy/Marine Corps.

;CH-53G: German base version of the CH-53D for the [[German Army Aviation Corps]]. The internal Sikorsky designation was S-65C-1.<ref name="USW">[http://www.uswarplanes.net/seastallion.html Sikorsky H-53 Sea Stallion] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170608191831/http://www.uswarplanes.net/seastallion.html |date=8 June 2017 }}. Retrieved 28 April 2012.</ref> A total of 112 were produced including 2 pre-production and 20 assembled by VFW-Fokker and 90 built by Speyer.<ref name="mod_mil">Eden, Paul. "Sikorsky H-53", ''Encyclopedia of Modern Military Aircraft''. Amber Books, 2004. {{ISBN|1-904687-84-9}}.</ref> {{As of|2007}}, 89 German CH-53s were in service, with 80 planned to be in service in 2014. All German CH-53s are going to receive T64-100 engines (in 3 batches; first batch has already been installed, second batch is currently being installed and 3rd batch is planned with funding made available). All will receive IFR-capability.<ref>{{cite web |date=8 August 2005 |url=http://www.dglr.de/news/lrifakten/archiv/LRIFakten2005-08.pdf |title=Mittelständische Luftfahrtindustrie als zuverlässigen Partner fördern |language=de |access-date=21 April 2009 |archive-date=24 December 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101224171241/http://www.dglr.de/news/lrifakten/archiv/LRIFakten2005-08.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>

;CH-53GS: Update of 20 CH-53Gs in the late 1990s, with additional missile counter measure, upgraded communication and navigation system and two external fuel tanks added.<ref name="mod_mil"/> They later received the first batch of T64-100 engines to operate in hot and high conditions that prevail in Afghanistan. MG3 and M3M machine guns were also fitted.<ref name=Hubschrauber>[http://www.bundeswehr.de/portal/a/bwde/kcxml/04_Sj9SPykssy0xPLMnMz0vM0Y_QjzKLd443DnQHSYGZASH6kTCxoJRUfW99X4_83FT9AP2C3IhyR0dFRQCsXOUq/delta/base64xml/L2dJQSEvUUt3QS80SVVFLzZfQ18zUUc!?yw_contentURL=%2FC1256EF4002AED30%2FW27ETCZW272INFODE%2Fcontent.jsp Modernisierte Hubschrauber für Afghanistan-Einsatz], bundeswehr.de. ([https://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bundeswehr.de%2Fportal%2Fa%2Fbwde%2Fkcxml%2F04_Sj9SPykssy0xPLMnMz0vM0Y_QjzKLd443DnQHSYGZASH6kTCxoJRUfW99X4_83FT9AP2C3IhyR0dFRQCsXOUq%2Fdelta%2Fbase64xml%2FL2dJQSEvUUt3QS80SVVFLzZfQ18zUUc%21%3Fyw_contentURL%3D%252FC1256EF4002AED30%252FW27ETCZW272INFODE%252Fcontent.jsp&sl=de&tl=en&hl=en&ie=UTF-8 English translation].)</ref> A CH-53GS/GE update has also been ordered to provide combat search-and-rescue (CSAR) capability to 26 helicopters.<ref name=DID_CH-53G_upgrades>[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/germany-eur-520m-to-upgrade-40-ch53g-helicopters-03061/ "Germany Upgrading Its CH-53G Helicopters"]. Defense Industry Daily, 21 June 2009.</ref><ref name=FI_Eurocopter_CH-53>Hoyle, Craig. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/06/23/328722/eurocopter-gets-personnel-recovery-deal-for-german-army.html "Eurocopter gets personnel recovery deal for German army CH-53s"]. Flight International, 23 June 2009.</ref><ref>[http://www.eads.net/1024/en/pressdb/archiv/2009/2009/Eurocopter/20090618_ec_ch53_germany.html "Eurocopter signs contract to retrofit 26 CH53 Bundeswehr helicopters for personnel recovery missions "]{{Dead link|date=February 2022 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}. Eurocopter, 18 June 2009.</ref>

;CH-53GE: A configuration based on CH-53GS combat search-and-rescue (CSAR) capabilities.<ref name=DID_CH-53G_upgrades/> The upgrade configuration was formerly known as CH-53GSX.{{Citation needed|date=February 2010}}  It further updates with modern electronics, two external fuel tanks, counter measures and dust filters for the engines. Upgrade was ordered to support Afghanistan deployment.<ref name=Hubschrauber />
[[File:2023 Royal International Air Tattoo 84+39 (53079361921).jpg|thumb|CH-54GA at the 2023 Royal International Air Tattoo]]
;CH-53GA: Update of further 40 CH-53Gs with new flight deck, new flight control system, autopilot, navigation and communication systems, FLIR, ECM and missile counter measures as well as provisions for additional internal fuel tanks. The CH-53GA helicopter successfully completed its first flight in February 2010.<ref>Hoyle, Craig. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/02/11/338273/german-army-ch-53ga-prototype-flies.html "German army CH-53GA prototype flies"]. ''Flight International'', 11 February 2010.</ref> The upgrade was completed by 2013.<ref>[http://www.flug-revue.rotor.com/frnews1/FRNews07/FR070225.htm "German Heeresflieger order CH-53 upgrade"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080622144437/http://www.flug-revue.rotor.com/FRNews1/FRNews07/FR070225.htm |date=22 June 2008 }}. Flug Revue, 25 February 2007.</ref>

;S-65Ö: Export version of the CH-53D for the [[Austrian Air Force]]. Internal Sikorsky designation was S-65C-2. Only 2 were built, subsequently sold to Israel.<ref name="USW" />

;S-65C-3: Export version of the CH-53D for the [[Israeli Air Force]].<ref name="USW" /> The ''Yas'ur 2000'' version are helicopters upgraded and improved by the [[Israel Aircraft Industries]] to extend life span past 2000. The ''Yas'ur 2025'' is a further upgraded version with new systems and new gearboxes.<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/01/05/320643/picture-israel-starts-testing-upgraded-ch-53-assault.html "Israel starts testing upgraded CH-53 assault helicopter"]. 5 January 2009.</ref> Israel completed the upgrade by 2015 and currently operates 21 Yas'urs as of November 2023.<ref>[https://www.iaf.org.il/4423-45310-HE/IAF.aspx ''"The Yas'ur Helicopter Will Live Another Century"''] (from Hebrew). IAF official website.</ref><ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/israel-acquires-surplus-ch-53-helicopters-for-spares-381494/ Israel acquires surplus CH-53 helicopters for spares] – ''FlightGlobal'', 25 January 2013</ref>

== Operators ==
[[File:IndFlypast 160413 Yasur.jpg|right|thumb|A CH-53-2000 Yas'ur (S-65C-3) of the [[Israeli Air Force]] during Israel's 65th Independence Day flypast in 2013]]
;{{Flag|Germany}}
* [[German Air Force]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014">{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/emptys/108161/world-air-forces-2014.pdf |title = World Air Forces 2014 |publisher= Flightglobal Insight |year= 2014 |access-date= 19 May 2014}}</ref>
** [[Helicopter Wing 64]]

;{{Flag|Iran}}
* [[Islamic Republic of Iran Navy Aviation|Islamic Republic Iranian Navy]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014"/>

;{{Flaglist|Israel}}
* [[Israeli Air Force]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014"/>
** [[118 Squadron (Israel)|118 Squadron]] ''"Night Birds"'', 1970–present

=== Former operators ===

;{{Flag|Austria}}
* [[Austrian Air Force]]<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1981/1981%20-%202499.html |title= World's Air Forces – 1981|work= FlightGlobal |access-date=19 May 2014}}</ref> 1970–1981 (sold to Israel)

;{{Flag|Germany}}
* [[German Army Aviation Corps]]<ref>{{cite web |title= Heer und Luftwaffe tauschen Hubschrauber |publisher= Flugrevue |date= 14 December 2012 |url= http://www.flugrevue.de/de/luftwaffe/streitkraefte/heer-und-luftwaffe-tauschen-hubschrauber.105345.htm |archive-url= https://archive.today/20130412071005/http://www.flugrevue.de/de/luftwaffe/streitkraefte/heer-und-luftwaffe-tauschen-hubschrauber.105345.htm |url-status= dead |archive-date= 12 April 2013 |access-date= 17 January 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{Citation |last= Ray |first= Roland |title= Bundeswehr: 1200 Dienstposten bleiben in Laupheim |newspaper= Schwäbische Zeitung |date= 11 January 2013 |language= de |url= http://www.schwaebische.de/region/biberach-ulm/laupheim/stadtnachrichten-laupheim_artikel,-Bundeswehr-1200-Dienstposten-bleiben-in-Laupheim-_arid,5375534.html |access-date= 23 March 2013}}</ref>
** Medium Transport Helicopter Regiment 15 ''Münsterland'', 1971–2012 (disbanded)
** [[Medium Transport Helicopter Regiment 25]] ''[[Upper Swabia|Oberschwaben]]'', 1971–2012 (initially disbanded, later reformed in 2013 as [[Helicopter Wing 64]] in the German Air Force)

;{{Flag|Mexico}}
* [[Mexican Air Force]]<ref name="Roa 2015"/>
** 104th Air Squadron, 2003-2013 (all CH-53s withdrawn from service)

;{{Flaglist|Israel}}
*[[Israeli Air Force]]<ref name="World Air Forces 2014"/>
**[[114 Squadron (Israel)|114 Squadron]] ''"Night Leaders"'', 1969–2023 (temporarily inactive, pending reactivation in 2025 while converting to CH-53K King Stallion)

;{{Flag|United States}}
* [[United States Air Force]] (see [[Sikorsky MH-53|MH-53 Pave Low]])
* [[United States Marine Corps]]<ref name="aero-news.net"/>
** [[HMH-361]] ''"Flying Tigers"'', 1977–1990 (converted to CH-53E Super Stallion, 1990–present)
** [[HMH-362]] ''"Ugly Angels"'', 1969-2012 (Last operational CH-53D Sea Stallion squadron)
** [[HMH-363]] ''"Lucky Red Lions"'', 1969-2012 (converted to MV-22 Osprey, 2012–present)
** [[HMH-366]] ''"Hammerheads"'', 1994–2000 (converted to CH-53E Super Stallion, 2008–2022)
** [[HMH-461]] ''"Ironhorse"'', 1966–1988 (initially converted CH-53E Super Stallion, 2008–2022; subsequently converted to CH-53K King Stallion, 2022–present)
** [[HMH-462]] ''"Heavy Haulers"'', 1965–1992 (converted to CH-53E Super Stallion, 1992–present)
** [[HMH-463]] ''"Pegasus"'', 1966-2011 (converted to CH-53E Super Stallion, 2012-2022)
** [[HMH-769]] ''"Titan"'', 1971–1990 (initially converted to RH-53D Sea Stallion, 1990–1996; later converted to CH-53E Super Stallion, 1996–2008; subsequently will be converted to CH-53K King Stallion in 2026)
** [[HMH-772]] ''"Hustlers"'', 1971–2000s (converted to CH-53E Super Stallion, 2000s–present)
** [[HMH-777]] ''"Flying Armadillos"'', 1971-1980 (was reformed in 1980 as HMH-772 Detachment B until 1993, and was then consolidated with HMH-769)
** [[HMHT/HMT-301]] ''"Windwalkers"'', 1968-1983, 1995-2005 (trained aircrews and technicians on CH-53A/D, converted to CH-53E Super Stallion 1983-1993, reactivated as training unit on CH-53D in 1995 until inactivation in 2005)
** [[HMHT/HMT-302]] ''"Phoenix"'', 1987–1995 (trained aircrews and technicians on the CH-53A/D until 1995, today only trains on the CH-53E Super Stallion, 1987–present)
** [[HMX-1]] ''"Nighthawks"'', 1972-2004 (Four VH-53D Sea Stallion supported US Presidential Executive Flight Detachment, converted to VH-53E Super Stallion which served into 2011)
* [[United States Navy]]<ref>{{cite web |url= http://airvictorymuseum.com/rh53.html |title= RH-53D Sea Stallion |publisher= airvictorymuseum.com |access-date= 26 July 2013 |archive-date= 23 May 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130523003452/http://airvictorymuseum.com/rh53.html |url-status= usurped }}</ref> (All remaining USN RH-53D Sea Stallions were transferred to the USMC in 1993 and all AMCM USN HM units had converted to the MH-53E Sea Dragon by 1995)
** [[HM-12]] ''"Sea Dragons"'', 1971-1994 (reestablished 2015-present with MH-53E Sea Dragon)
** [[HM-14]] ''"Vanguard"'', 1978-1989 (converted to MH-53E Sea Dragon 1989-2023)
** [[HM-15]] ''"Blackhawks"'', 1993-1994 (established in 1987 as an MH-53E squadron; supported HM-19 as Det. 3 or "Pink Det." integration from RH-53D to MH-53E Sea Dragon) 
** [[HM-16]] ''"Seahawks"'', 1978-1987 (was exclusively an RH-53D squadron)
** [[HM-18]] ''"Norsemen"'', 1986-1995 (RH-53D squadron that integrated with HM-14 with MH-53E Sea Dragon)
** [[HM-19]] ''"Golden Bears"'', 1988-1993 (RH-53D squadron that integrated with HM-15 with MH-53E Sea Dragon)

==Aircraft on display==
[[File:Sikorsky CH-53 Helicopter (468964441).jpg|thumb|CH-53A Yas'ur at the Israeli Air Force Museum]]
[[File:Sikorsky CH-53A "Sea Stallion" US Marines 153304 UT-00 (7187691137).jpg|thumb|CH-53A at the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum]]
[[File:Sikorsky CH-53E Sea Stallion BuNo 157159 C-N- 65-284 (National Naval Aviation Museum) (8748499817).jpg|thumb|CH-53D at the National Naval Aviation Museum]]<!-- this image is mislabeled, the museum has a D model-->

===Israel===
;On display
* ''471'' (#65-078) - CH-53A on display at [[Israeli Air Force Museum]], [[Hatzerim Airbase]], Israel.<ref>[https://sky-high.co.il/2021/04/05/%D7%99%D7%A1%D7%A2%D7%95%D7%A8-471/ ''"Yas'ur 471 - Markia Schakim"''] (from Hebrew). sky-high.co.il</ref><ref>[https://aerialvisuals.ca/AirframeDossier.php?Serial=126279 Airframe Dossier - Sikorsky CH-53A sn 471 IDF cn 65.078]. aerialvisuals.ca</ref>

===United States===
;On display
* 151686 - CH-53A on display at [[Paxtuxent River Naval Air Museum]], Lexington Park, Maryland.
* 153304 – CH-53A on display at [[Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum]], [[MCAS Miramar]], California.{{citation needed|date=June 2017}}
* 153715 - CH-53A on display at [[Fort Worth Aviation Museum]], [[Fort Worth, Texas]]{{citation needed|date=January 2017}}
* 157159 - CH-53D on display at [[National Naval Aviation Museum]], [[NAS Pensacola]], Florida.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Outdoor Exhibits Archives |url=https://navalaviationmuseum.org/category/outdoor-exhibits/ |access-date=2024-06-15 |website=NNAM |date=5 June 2020 |language=en-US}}</ref>
* 158690 - RH-53D on display at [[Air Victory Museum]], Lumberton, New Jersey.

==Accidents and incidents==
Due to the aircraft's large size and troop capacity, aerial accidents involving CH-53 helicopters have been some of the [[List of deadliest helicopter crashes|deadliest helicopter accidents]].

* On 23 June 1967, USMC CH-53A Bu. no #65-082 collided with a US Army [[Bell UH-1 Iroquois|UH-1B]] #63-8572 while taking off from [[Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune|Camp Lejeune]], all 20 marines on board were killed along with two occupants of the UH-1B.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=74276 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #74276 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 8 January 1968, USMC CH-53A #65-100 of [[HMH-463]] crashed in the [[Hải Lăng District|Hải Lăng Forest]] south of [[Đông Hà Combat Base]], killing all 46 personnel on board.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=76027 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #76027 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 19 February 1968, USMC CH-53A #65-055 crashed into [[Sơn Trà Mountain|Monkey Mountain]] killing all 13 personnel on board.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=138150 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #138150 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 22 February 1968, USMC CH-53A #65-060, was hit by antiaircraft fire and crashed at [[Khe Sanh Combat Base]], killing two marines.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148200 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148200 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 1 May 1968, USMC CH-53A #65-058 crashed into the sea off [[Quảng Trị Province]] killing one crewman.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148202 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148202 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 28 July 1968, USMC CH-53A #65-061 crashed south of [[Danang]] killing all five crewmen.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148203 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148203 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 1 September 1969, USMC CH-53A #65-059 crashed in [[Thừa Thiên-Huế Province|Thừa Thiên Province]] killing all five crewmen.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148201 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148201 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 13 September 1970, USMC CH-53D #65-181 was hit by antiaircraft fire and crashed with no fatalities.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148205 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148205 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 26 October 1970, USMC CH-53D #65-192 crashed on a test flight near Danang, killing one crewman.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148207 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148207 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 30 October 1970, USMC CH-53D #65-259 was hit by antiaircraft fire and crashed in [[Quảng Nam Province]], killing two crewmen.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148208 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148208 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 18 February 1971, USAF CH-53C #65-227 of [[21st Special Operations Squadron]] was hit by antiaircraft fire and crashed in [[Laos]] with no fatalities.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=56222 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #56222 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 8 February 1971, USMC CH-53D #65-189 crashed near [[Huế]], killing all nine personnel on board.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148206 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148206 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 1 March 1971, USAF CH-53C #65-229 of 21st Special Operations Squadron was hit by antiaircraft fire and crashed near [[Long Tieng]], killing six personnel.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=56221 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #56221 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 11 July 1972, USMC CH-53D #65-177 was hit by a surface to air missile and crashed near [[Quảng Trị]], killing three crewmen and 45 South Vietnamese marines.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=148204 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #148204 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 24 January 1975, USAF CH-53C #65-338 of 21st Special Operations Squadron suffered main rotor head failure and crashed near [[Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Navy Base]], killing all four personnel on board.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=56218 |title=ASN Wikibase Occurrence #56218 |publisher=Aviation Safety Network |access-date=4 October 2017}}</ref>
* On 13 May 1975, USAF CH-53C #65-231 of 21st Special Operations Squadron crashed west of Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base, killing 23 Air Force personnel<ref>{{cite book |last=Dunham |first=George R |title=U.S. Marines in Vietnam: The Bitter End, 1973-1975 (Marine Corps Vietnam Operational Historical Series) |publisher=Marine Corps Association |year=1990 |url=https://archive.org/details/TheBitterEnd |isbn=9780160264559 |page=[https://archive.org/details/TheBitterEnd/page/n249 240]}}{{PD-notice}}</ref>
* On 15 May 1975, during the [[Mayaguez incident|''Mayaguez'' Incident]], three CH-53s of the 21st Special Operations Squadron were shot down by the [[Khmer Rouge]], resulting in the deaths of ten marines, two Navy Corpsmen and two Air Force crewmen.<ref>Wetterhahn 2002, pp. 195–177.</ref>
* On 26 September 1975, USAF CH-53C #65-342 of the [[601st Tactical Air Support Squadron]] crashed near [[Delbrück]] ([[Paderborn]]) Germany killing 16 personnel on board.
* On 10 May 1977,a CH-53 [[1977 Israeli Air Force Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion crash|crashed in Israel]], resulting in the deaths of 54 people.
* On 21 October 1977, a CH-53 crashed in Mindoro, Philippines during sling load operations due to a design flaw in the tail rotor drive; 31 US marines serving in Operation Fortress Lightning were killed.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.leatherneck.com/forums/archive/index.php/t-67386.html |title= Info About a 1977 Helicopter Crash |access-date= 4 January 2012}}</ref>
* On 11 December 1978, a CH-53G of the German Army Aviation Corps' [[Medium Transport Helicopter Regiment 25]] crashed at [[Laupheim Air Base]], Germany. During landing in poor visibility the [[tail rotor]] hit the ground. Of the four occupants, one was killed.<ref>{{cite web |title= ASN Occurrence no. 55637 |publisher= Aviation Safety Network |url= http://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/wiki.php?id=55637 |access-date= 3 March 2013}}</ref>
* On 25 April 1980, six USN RH-53s were lost in [[Operation Eagle Claw]], the failed attempt to rescue [[Iran Hostage Crisis|American hostages in Iran]].
* On 26 November 1980, a CH-53G of the German Army Aviation Corps' Medium Transport Helicopter Regiment 15 crashed in a forest near [[Waldbröl|Wippenkausen]], North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. All four occupants were killed.<ref>{{cite web |title= V65-079 |publisher= helis.com |url= http://www.helis.com/database/cn/1713/ |access-date= 23 March 2013}}</ref>
[[File:LPH-9 fire 19Jul1981 NAN12-81jpg.jpg|thumb|Sailors fight a fire on the [[USS Guam (LPH-9)]] on 19 July 1981. While operating 50 km southeast of Morehead City, North Carolina (USA), a Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion crashed into another CH-53 and a Bell UH-1N Twin Huey upon landing]]
* On 14 September 1982, CH-53A #65-083<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-09 |title=Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 777 |url=https://www.helis.com/database/sqd/HMH-777/}}</ref> crashed into the North Sea off the coast of Denmark during NATO exercise "[[Northern Wedding]]" killing all 5 servicemen aboard.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Accident Sikorsky CH-53A Sea Stallion 153312 |url=https://aviation-safety.net/wikibase/55989 |access-date=2024-02-09 |website=aviation-safety.net}}</ref> the Pilot, Capt. William H. "Sonny" Coke; Co-Pilot Capt James B. Huff; Crew Chief SSgt. Gary J. "Butch" Lester; Sgt. Timothy A. "Tim" Creighton; and chaplain, Navy Cdr. David R. Morrison. The Sea Stallion was part of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron-777.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Starship 402 Memorial Taps Scholarship |url=https://starship402.org/ |access-date=2024-02-09 |language=en-US}}</ref>
* On 27 April 1983, a CH-53D crashed in the Atlantic off the coast of Virginia. The crash resulted in the drowning of Marine 1st Lt David A. Boyle. The suit brought by Boyle's father went to the [[Supreme Court of the United States|Supreme Court]].<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-01-15-me-4515-story.html |title= Court Ruling May Have Big Effect on Copter Crash Suits |work= Los Angeles Times |date= 15 January 1987 |access-date= 6 September 2011}}</ref>
* On 24 March 1984, a CH-53D crashed into a mountain in South Korea during a night troop operation, killing 29.<ref name="Los Angeles Times">{{cite news |url= https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1986-05-14-me-5469-story.html |title= 'It's Getting Worse': Copter Victim's Tape Detailed Craft's Faults |access-date= 8 June 2012 |newspaper= Los Angeles Times |date= 14 May 1986}}</ref>
* On 6 May 1985, a CH-53D experienced a transmission failure and fell into Sea of Japan, killing 17.<ref name="Los Angeles Times"/> It was returning to Marine Corps Air Station Futenma from MCAS Iwakuni, Yamaguchi Prefecture.{{citation needed|date=December 2020}}
* On 29 December 1988, an Israeli Yas'ur crashed during a border-stone laying mission at the Israel-Egypt border. Investigation determined that high-frequency heterodyne vibration, induced by a late control column attitude correction during hover by the pilot (the sole fatality), caused a structural failure; the separation of the aircraft's tail and its immediate, rapid counter-rotation and subsequent crash. The three remaining occupants were injured. A footage of this crash can be viewed on-line. A system of dampers to prevent rapid correction and thus the heterodyne vibrations, has been installed since on the remaining Yas'ur helicopters.{{citation needed|date=August 2015}}
* On 20 March 1989, a Sea Stallion crashed while on maneuvers off mountainous east coast of South Korea, near P'ohang. Nineteen on board were killed. Sixteen other marines, including one on the ground, were injured in the crash.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-05-20-mn-171-story.html |title= Helicopter Crash Kills 1 Marine, Injures 5: Military: Mishap near the Salton Sea is latest in series of fatal accidents involving the aircraft. More than 200 servicemen have been killed in similar Sikorsky-built copters since 1969. |access-date= 8 June 2012 |newspaper= Los Angeles Times |date= 20 May 1990}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Archives |first=L. A. Times |date=1989-03-20 |title=22 U.S. Marines Die in S. Korea Copter Crash: 15 Hurt, Some Critically, as CH-53 Sea Stallion Falls in Mountain Area |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-03-20-mn-166-story.html |access-date=2024-11-08 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US}}</ref>
* On 18 May 1990, a USMC CH-53D en route to Marine Corps Air Station Tustin crashed in Imperial County, California, killing one crew member and injuring five others. In climbing flight, a pitch lock engaged in one main rotor blade causing a violent vibration that resulted in the tail rotor departing the aircraft at {{convert|2200|ft|m|abbr=on}} AGL.  Torque and rapid rotation contributed to the aircraft breaking apart further just aft of the main transmission.  Auto-rotation resulted a bounce, roll over and fire.  Auxiliary tanks were attached.{{citation needed|date=March 2017}} More than 200 servicemen had been killed in accidents involving the CH-53A, CH-53D, and CH-53E from 1969 to 1990.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-05-20-mn-171-story.html |title= Helicopter Crash Kills 1 Marine, Injures 5: Military: Mishap near the Salton Sea is latest in series of fatal accidents involving the aircraft. More than 200 servicemen have been killed in similar Sikorsky-built copters since 1969 |access-date= 8 June 2012 |newspaper= Los Angeles Times |date= 20 May 1990}}</ref>
* On 14 March 1994, a CH-53D landed tail-first and burst into flames on a military runway in Northern California. One marine was killed and four marines were injured.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1994-03-14-mn-33853-story.html |title= 1 Marine Killed, 4 Hurt in Crash of Tustin-Based Helicopter |access-date= 8 June 2012 |newspaper= Los Angeles Times |date= 14 March 1994}}</ref>
* On 4 February 1997, two CH-53s [[1997 Israeli helicopter disaster|collided]] in Israel. A total of 73 people died in the accident.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.israeli-weapons.com/weapons/aircraft/yasur/Yasur.htm |title=Yas'ur 2000 |work= Israeli.Weapons.com |access-date=2007-03-10}}</ref>
* On 21 December 2002, a CH-53G of the German Army Aviation Corps' Medium Transport Helicopter Regiment 25 crashed near [[Kabul]] killing all seven occupants. An investigation following the accident concluded that the crash was caused by mechanical failure.<ref>{{cite web |last= Ray |first= Roland |title= Zehn Jahre nach dem Hubschrauberabsturz über Kabul: Soldaten sind nicht vergessen |newspaper= Schwäbische Zeitung |date= 21 December 2012 |language= de |url= http://www.schwaebische.de/region/biberach-ulm/laupheim/stadtnachrichten-laupheim_artikel,-Zehn-Jahre-nach-dem-Hubschrauberabsturz-ueber-Kabul-Soldaten-sind-nicht-vergessen-_arid,5367915.html |access-date= 1 February 2013}}</ref>
* On 23 November 2003, a MH-53M crashed near Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. Five U.S. servicemen were killed.<ref>{{cite web|author=Michael Robert Patterson |url=http://arlingtoncemetery.net/chopper-crew-november-2003.htm |title=United States Helicopter Crew: Killed In Afghanistan, 23 November 2003 |publisher=Arlingtoncemetery.net |accessdate=2022-05-02}}</ref>
* On 13 August 2004, a USMC CH-53D from [[Marine Corps Air Station Futenma]] {{Interlanguage link|2004 Okinawa International University USMC CH-53 crash|lt=crashed|ja|沖国大米軍ヘリ墜落事件|qid=Q11552494}}into [[Okinawa International University]] on [[Okinawa, Japan]]. No serious damage or injuries resulted but the crash caused an international incident because of strained relations about the US use of Futenma. The crash was caused by a maintenance error.<ref>Carol, Joe. "[http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/fl20100608zg.html Futenma divides Okinawa's expats]". '''[[The Japan Times]]''', 8 June 2010.</ref><ref>"[http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20100429f1.html Bad memories of U.S. bases linger]". '''[[The Japan Times]]''', 29 April 2010.</ref><ref>Takahara, Kanako. "[http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20041006a2.html Missing pin caused copter crash: report]". '''[[The Japan Times]]''', 6 October 2004.</ref>
* On 28 November 2008, CH-53G Registration 84+36 of the German Army Aviation Corps' Medium Helicopter Transport Regiment 25 had a hard landing during an exercise at an altitude of 6,900 feet (2,300 m) near [[Engelberg]] in the [[Swiss Alps]], injuring one of the six occupants.<ref>{{cite web |title= Deutscher Militärhubschrauber auf einer Höhe von 2.600 M. verunfallt |publisher= Kantonspolizei Obwalden |date= 28 November 2008 |language= de |url= http://polizeibericht.ch/ger_details_17690/Engelberg_OW_Deutscher_Militaerhubschrauber_auf_einer_Hoehe_von_2600_M_verunfallt_-_Ein_Mechaniker_verletzt.html |access-date= 3 March 2013}}</ref> The dismantling and partial recovery of the helicopter wreckage was completed in June 2009 by helilifting 84+36 slung below her sister 84+32 down to the village of [[Alpnach]].<ref>{{cite web |title= Bundeswehr-Heli aus Titlisgebiet geborgen |work= 20 Minuten |date= 26 June 2009 |language= de |url= http://www.20min.ch/schweiz/news/story/11218080 |access-date= 23 March 2013}}</ref>
* On 26 July 2010, an Israeli CH-53 [[2010 IAF Sikorsky CH-53 crash|crashed]] during a training flight in the Carpathian mountains in Romania, killing six Israeli soldiers and one Romanian.{{Citation needed|date=May 2021}}
* On 29 March 2011, a USMC CH-53D from MCBH Kaneohe Bay crashed into the bay, killing one and injuring three.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/breaking/Crash_of_helicopter_off_Marine_base.html?id=118894494 |title=Hawaii Local Breaking News and Headlines – 1 Marine dies, 3 injured in Kaneohe Bay crash |work=Honolulu Star-Advertiser |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150406083535/http://www.staradvertiser.com/news/breaking/Crash_of_helicopter_off_Marine_base.html?id=118894494 |archive-date=6 April 2015}}</ref>
* On 19 January 2012, a USMC CH-53 crashed in southern Afghanistan. Six International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) troops, all marines, were killed in the accident.<ref>[https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-copter-crashes-in-afghanistan/ "U.S. copter crashes in Afghanistan; 6 dead"]. CBS News, 20 January 2012.</ref>
<!-- See [[Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion]] for CH-53E/MH-53E accidents. -->

==Specifications (CH-53D)==
[[File:Sikorsky CH-53D Sea Stallion Drawing.svg|thumb]]
[[File:Doorgunner CH-53GS.jpg|thumb|A [[German Army]] door gunner on board a CH-53]]
[[File:CH-53G engine.jpg|thumb|CH-53G engine]]
{{Aircraft specs
|ref= Deagel.com,<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.deagel.com/pandora/ch-53d-sea-stallion_opm0002001.aspx |title = CH-53D Sea Stallion |publisher = Deagel.com |accessdate = 10 March 2007 |archive-date = 21 September 2006 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060921020758/http://deagel.com/pandora/ch-53d-sea-stallion_opm0002001.aspx |url-status = dead }}</ref> U.S. Navy history,<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.history.navy.mil/planes/ch53.htm |title = CH-53A/D/E Sea Stallion and MH-53E Sea Dragon |publisher = United States Navy |accessdate = 28 March 2021 |archive-date = 6 February 1997 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/19970206100104/http://www.history.navy.mil/planes/ch53.htm |url-status = dead }}</ref> International Directory,<ref name="Frawley Military"/> US Navy Fact File<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1200&tid=200&ct=1 |title = CH-53D Fact File |publisher = United States Navy |date = 17 May 1999 |access-date = 26 October 2007 |archive-date = 14 November 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081114211147/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1200&tid=200&ct=1 |url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.marines.mil/news/publications/Documents/Marines%20and%20Helicopters%201962-1973%20%20PCN%2019000307400_3.pdf |title = Marines and Helicopters, 1962–1973 |website = marines.mil |access-date = 27 March 2018 |archive-date = 3 October 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121003154443/http://www.marines.mil/news/publications/Documents/Marines%20and%20Helicopters%201962-1973%20%20PCN%2019000307400_3.pdf |url-status = dead }}</ref>
|prime units?= kts
<!--    General characteristics
-->
|crew= 2 pilots, 1 or more loadmasters / crewmen
|capacity= 38 troops (55 in alternate configuration) or 24 stretchers / {{cvt|8000|lb}} payload
|length ft=
|length in=
|length note=
|width ft= 28
|width in= 4
|width note= over stub wings
::::{{cvt|15|ft|6|in|0}} across fuselage
|height ft=
|height in=
|height note=
|empty weight lb= 23,628
|empty weight note=
|gross weight lb= 33,500
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight lb= 42,000
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity=
|more general=
<!--    Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number= 2
|eng1 name= [[General Electric T64-GE-413]]
|eng1 type= [[turboshaft]] engines
|eng1 shp= 3,925
|eng1 note=

|rot number= 1
|rot dia ft= 72
|rot dia in= 2.8
|rot area sqft= 4,098.1
|rot area note= 6-bladed main rotor
*'''Blade section:''' – [[NACA airfoil|NACA 0011 mod]]<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1 = Lednicer |first1 = David |title = The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url = https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website = m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date = 16 April 2019}}</ref>
<!--    Performance
-->
|max speed kts= 170
|max speed note=
|cruise speed kts= 150
|cruise speed note=
|never exceed speed kts=
|never exceed speed note=
|range nmi= 540
|range note=
|combat range nmi= 95
|combat range note=
|ferry range nmi= 886
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling ft= 16,750
|ceiling note=
|climb rate ftmin= 2,460
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude=
|disk loading lb/sqft= 8.95
|disk loading note=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|power/mass=
|more performance=
<!--    Armament
-->
|armament=* Two door mounted [[.50 BMG]] [[M2 Browning machine gun#XM213/M213, XM218, GAU-15/A, GAU-16/A, and GAU-18/A|GAU-15/A]] machine guns. Some have a ramp mounted .50 BMG [[M2 Browning machine gun#GAU-21/A and M3P|GAU-21]] machine gun.
* German CH-53Gs can mount two [[7.62×51mm]] [[Rheinmetall MG3|MG3]] machine guns in the side doors, which are to be replaced by two .50 BMG [[M2 Browning machine gun#GAU-21/A and M3P|M3M/GAU-21]] machines guns in the doors and one on the ramp.

|avionics=
}}

==See also==
[[File:CH-53D Sea Stallion spewing flares.jpg|thumb|CH-53D releasing [[Flare (countermeasure)|flares]] near [[Naval Air Station Patuxent River]], 1982]]
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|see also=<!-- other related articles that have not already linked: -->
|related=<!-- designs which were developed into or from this aircraft: -->
* [[Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion]]
* [[Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion]]
* [[Sikorsky CH-54 Tarhe]]
* [[Sikorsky MH-53|Sikorsky HH-53 "Super Jolly Green Giant"/MH-53 Pave Low]]
* [[Sikorsky S-61R]]
|similar aircraft=<!-- aircraft that are of similar role, era, and capability as this design: -->
* [[Aérospatiale Super Frelon]]
* [[Boeing CH-47 Chinook]]
* [[Mil Mi-14]]
|lists=<!-- relevant lists that this aircraft appears in: -->
* [[List of active United States military aircraft]]
* [[List of military aircraft of the United States]]
* [[List of rotorcraft]]
}}

==References==
===Citations===
{{Reflist|refs=
<ref name="krueger">{{citation |type=periodical |last=Krueger |first=Alfred |title=Air-Britain Digest |publisher=[[Air-Britain]] |date=November–December 1972 |volume=24 |issue=6 }}</ref>
}}

===Bibliography===
{{refbegin}}
* {{cite book |last= Andrade |first= John |title= Militair 1982 |year= 1982 |publisher= Aviation Press Limited |location= London |isbn=0-907898-01-7}}
* {{cite book |title=Keeping Faith: Memoirs of a President |date=1 October 1982 |first=Jimmy |last=Carter |publisher=Bantam Books |isbn=0-553-05023-0}}
* Frawley, Gerard: ''The International Directory of Military Aircraft'', page 148. Aerospace Publications Pty Ltd, 2002. {{ISBN|1-875671-55-2}}.
* {{cite book |last=Gargus |first=John |title=The Son Tay Raid : American POWs in Vietnam Were Not Forgotten |year=2007 |publisher=Texas A & M Univ. Press |location=College Station |isbn=978-1-58544-622-3 |edition=first |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/sontayraidameric0000garg}}
* {{cite book |last=Wetterhahn |first=Ralph |title=The Last Battle: The Mayaguez Incident and the end of the Vietnam War |publisher=Plume |year=2002 |isbn=0-452-28333-7 |page = 26}}
{{refend}}

==External links==
{{commons|CH-53}}
* [http://www.history.navy.mil/planes/ch53.htm US Navy CH-53A/D/E and MH-53E history page] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/19970206100104/http://www.history.navy.mil/planes/ch53.htm |date=6 February 1997 }} and [http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1200&tid=200&ct=1 US Navy CH-53 fact file] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081114211147/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1200&tid=200&ct=1 |date=14 November 2008 }}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20061109071259/http://hqinet001.hqmc.usmc.mil/AVN/documents/aircraft/rotarywing/ch53.htm CH-53D/E Fact File] and [https://web.archive.org/web/20071014030546/http://192.156.19.102/factfile.nsf/7e931335d515626a8525628100676e0c/42812d57e98037cc8525626e00490150?OpenDocument CH/RH-53D fact file on USMC site]
* [http://www.iaf.org.il/Templates/Aircraft/Aircraft.IN.aspx?lang=EN&lobbyID=69&folderID=82&docfolderID=208&docID=18304&currentPageNumber=2 CH-53 Yas'ur] ([[Israeli Air Force]] website)
* [http://www.globalaircraft.org/planes/ch-53_sea_stallion.pl CH-53 Sea Stallion page on GlobalAircraft.org]
* [http://www.helis.com/database/model/83 Sikorsky S-65 / H-53 Sea Stallion page on Helis.com]

{{Sikorsky Aircraft}}
{{US helicopters}}
{{USAF system codes}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:United States military helicopters]]
[[Category:1960s United States military transport aircraft]]
[[Category:Sikorsky aircraft]]
[[Category:1960s United States helicopters]]
[[Category:Twin-turbine helicopters]]
[[Category:Search and rescue helicopters]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1964]]
[[Category:Sikorsky H-53]]