SH-3 Sea King

    In December 1957, the US Navy gave the go-ahead to a new program for a very high performance helicopter with advanced technology. Sikorsky submitted a project for a big twin turbine aircraft with a boat-type hull and retractable landing gear for amphibious operations. The aircraft had all-weather capability, a good choice of weapons loads and four hours' endurance. The project was designated S-61 and the HSS-2 prototype flew on 11 March 1959. The prototype was followed by seven pre-production aircraft which successfully completed service trials in 1960. The US Navy ordered the first ten for delivery starting in September 1961. The helicopters were later redesignated SH-3A Sea King. One of the first production models set up a world speed record of 339 km/h on 5 February 1962.
    In April 1962, the USAF leased three HSS-2, transformed into 27-seat transport aircraft for services linking the Texas Towers radar installations. From 1966, the SH-3A was superseded by the SH-3D, which had a 1419shp T58-GE-10 turbine and new electronics. They have been purchased by Brazil, Italy, Iran and Britain.  
    The SH-3H model is used by the Navy Reserves to detect, classify, track and destroy enemy submarines. It also provides logistical support and a search and rescue capability. The UH-3H model is utility configured for logistical support and search and rescue missions. The VH-3A model supports the Executive Transport Mission. The first version of this workhorse helicopter was flown more than 35 years ago. The Sea King has been replaced by the SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopters as the anti-submarine warfare helicopter. The transition was completed in the mid 1990s. The remaining Sea King helicopters have been configured for logistical support and search and rescue missions. 

SH-3 Sea King - Marine One
Premier Series.  1/54th scale.  18.25" rotor spread x 16.5" long.
  No. AHA3D-P1. Only $209.95
SH-3 Royal Coast Guard
Premier Series.   1/54th scale.  18.25" rotor spread x 16.5" long.
  AHA3D-P2.  Only $209.95
VH3D-Sea King - "Marine One"
Standard Series.  1/48th scale.
15.5" rotor spread x 13' long.
  No. AHA3D-S1.  Only $149.95
HH37-Pelican - USCG
Standard Series.  1/48th scale.
15.5" rotor spread x 13" long.
  No. AHA3D-S2.  Only $149.95
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