The History of Heavy Lift: Can the 1947 Vision of an All Heavy Helicopter Force Achieve Fruition in 2002?
Abstract
Seeking alternatives to the World War II amphibious landing, the Commandant tasked his amphibious commanders to, 'Compose a special board to propose ... concepts and principles ... to wage successful amphibious warfare in the future'. The Board recommended the Vertical Assault Doctrine, which rested on the development of the HR2S-1 a heavy lift helicopter able to carry 20 Marines. However, design and production problems forced the Marine Corps to replace it with a medium lift helicopter called the HUS-1. The demise of heavy lift as the backbone of the Vertical Assault Doctrine began with the fact that the technology of a heavy lift helicopter was not feasible until 1955, by which time the Marine Corps had reoriented to become a medium lift force. The Marine Corps did eventually develop the CH-53E heavy lift helicopter; however, never with the intention of replacing the medium lift force. In an ironic twist of fate the medium lift replacement MV-22 has encountered long delays in testing and production reminiscent of the HR2S-1. Hence, the CH-53E has filled the major role as an interim helicopter in the Doctrine of Operational Maneuver from the Sea (OMFTS).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA403884
Entities
People
- James D. Barich
Organizations
- Marine Corps University