Capability Gaps in USMC Medium Lift

Abstract

Currently, the Marine Corps is in the process of fielding two new rotary-wing airframes which are touted to replace the venerable CH-46E. Both the MV-22 and UH-1Y airframes offer a tremendous increase in capabilities for the Marine Corps in several different flight regimes, but with the increases also come a major hole in abilities for the MAGTFs regarding medium lift capabilities. The CH-46E is an old airframe and needs to be replaced. The current options will bring new capabilities but will not fill the capability gap between light utility aircraft and heavy lift aircraft. The Marine Corps must field an additional medium lift platform because a significant capabilities gap will exist between the UH-1Y, the MV-22, and what is currently available with the CH-46E with its small downwash signature, rapid loading and unloading of cargo, and ability to fit into tight Landing Zones without damaging foreign relations.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 20, 2009
Accession Number
ADA508097

Entities

People

  • Scott Harris

Organizations

  • Marine Corps Combat Development Command

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerial Warfare
  • Afghanistan Conflict
  • Air Force
  • Air Pressure
  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Aircraft Wings
  • Aircrafts
  • Airframes
  • Attack Helicopters
  • Foreign Relations
  • Helicopters
  • Marine Corps
  • Medical Personnel
  • Rotary Wing Aircraft
  • United States
  • Utility Aircraft
  • Warfare

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aerodynamics/Aeronautics.
  • Economics
  • Maritime Combat Support and Expeditionary Logistics.