Investigation of Techniques for Towing a HH-3F Helicopter at Sea,

Abstract

A U.S. Coast Guard HH-3F helicopter downed at sea overturned while being towed back to port. This incident indicated a need for adequate towing techniques. A project was undertaken for the U.S. Coast Guard to develop techniques for towing this type helicopter at sea. A model of the helicopter with a scale ratio of 6.67 was constructed and towed in the model basins. Towing was conducted in calm water and in waves simulating up to Sea State 5. The helicopter towing was unstable under most conditions but was stabilized by attaching a drogue parachute to the helicopter. The addition of the drogue parachute is the primary recommendation made for towing the helicopter at sea.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1975
Accession Number
ADA021133

Entities

People

  • David W Taylor
  • John V. Mirabella
  • Raymond P. Para

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Coast Guard
  • Drogue Parachutes
  • Helicopters
  • Model Basins
  • Parachutes

Readers

  • Marksmanship and Weaponry.
  • Materials Science
  • Oceanography.