Analysis of Combat Damage on CH-53A and HH-53B Helicopters in Southeast Asia (1967 through June 1969)
Abstract
This report analyzes 345 cases of combat damage to U.S. Marine Corps CH-53A and U.S. Air Force HH-53B helicopters caused by ground fire in Southeast Asia, as reported to the Army Materiel Systems Analysis Agency and Ballistic Research Laboratories (AMSAA/BRL) through a number of data sources. Tabulated statistics and related analyses are provided for sorties flown, sorties hit, total hits, distribution of hits, circumstances of hits, and aircraft systems and components hit. Data are correlated with respect to crashes, forced landings, mission aborts, and damage-grounded aircraft. Hit frequency and hit multiples by weapon types are correlated with aircraft altitude, airspeed, and other factors; components and system damage are identified by reactions caused. Observations are compared with those from other analyses, for similarities with the CH-54, and for contrast with other helicopters. Comments on passive defense measures are included.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0516871
Entities
People
- Raymond E. Wheeler
- Walter S. Thompson
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory