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Kaman HH-43B Huskie

  • Kaman HH-43B Huskie
  • Kaman HH-43B Huskie
  • Kaman HH-43B Huskie

History of the HH-43B Huskie

Adapted from the Kaman H-43A, in 1959, the HH-43B became the next variant of rescue mission helicopters. These aircraft served during the Vietnam War aiding boats patrolling the Mekong Delta. Support in this region included rescue missions and firefighting operations. For example, it carried two firefighters with 1,000 pounds of firefighting and rescue gear as well as water, foam or compressed nitrogen to put out aircraft fires, if needed.

Kaman HH-43B Huskie Blueprint

Kaman HH-43B Huskie

Serial Number: 62-4561

Manufacturer: Kaman Aircraft Corporation

Crew: One pilot and two rescue/fire fighters

Engines: One Lycoming T-53-L-1B; 860 horsepower

Wingspan: 47 feet

Length: 25 feet 2 inches

Height: 15 feet 6.5 inches

Weight: 9,150 pounds (maximum)

Speed: 105 mph (cruising); 120 mph (maximum)

Range: 185 miles

Service Ceiling: 25,000 feet

Armament: None

Cost: $304,000

The HH-43B Huskie at Hill Air Force Base

HH-43B aircraft were assigned to the 1550th Aircrew Training and Test Wing, a tenant of Hill Air Force Base, to train combat crews from 1971–1976. The HH-43B on display was manufactured in 1963 and served in Japan, Oklahoma and lastly at Hill Air Force Base for training purposes. In 1988, it was put on display at Hill Aerospace Museum.

How was the HH-43 primarily used?

The Huskie was used primarily for local base rescue, performing some 888 combat rescues during the Vietnam conflict.

How far could the Huskie fly?

With a range of just 185 miles, the Huskie was well suited for local rescue missions.

How many HH-43s were built?

First introduced in 1953, just 193 Huskies were built by the Kaman Corporation in the late 1950s.

Why did the Huskie have two main rotors?

By using counter-rotating propellors, the Huskie removed the need for a tail rotor to counteract the torque caused by single rotor helicopters.

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