Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe
American heavy helicopter The CH-54 Tarhe helicopter was developed by the Sikorsky Aircraft company, founded by the outstanding Ukrainian aircraft designer Igor Sikorsky. The first flight of the helicopter (original name S-64) took place on May 9, 1962.
The helicopter was built according to the modular principle, which simplified its maintenance and repair. It had a tall three-post chassis with a front strut, which allowed a tractor with a trailer to drive up to its fuselage freely.
The helicopter's powerful winches made it possible to lift the cargo in hover mode, without the need to land on the ground. During the war in Vietnam, he evacuated damaged planes and various helicopters, transported artillery pieces, cars, tanks and even combat boats on external suspension.
It was also used to drop heavy bombs to clear the forest for an airfield. This helicopter set 10 world records for its class, including lifting a 15-ton cargo to a height of 3,307 meters. The civilian version of the helicopter (Erickson S-64 Aircrane) is successfully operated today.
