VFW-Fokker CH-53G Stallion, 8403 / V65-001, German Army
This picture is © Martin Laycock and may not be used or published without permission.
Registration: 8403
Construction Number: V65-001
Code Number: 03
Military Unit: MHFTR-15
Model VFW-Fokker CH-53G Stallion
Operator: German Army
Airport: RAF Fairford (FFD / EGVA), UK - England
Airshow: Fairford - IAT - 1991
Photographer: Martin Laycock
Date Taken: 20/07/1991
Date Submitted: 23/12/2009
Photographed at IAT91, this CH-53G is one of 110 built for the Heeresflieger (German Army Aviation Corps) and is based at Rheine-Bentlage. Apart from the first two helicopters, all were constructed in Germany by VFW-Fokker, the first one making its maiden flight in 1971. Delivery of the first machines to the 35th Army Aviation Regiment (HFR-35) followed in March 1973. The 15th Army Aviation Regiment (HFR-15) received theirs shortly after. German CH-53s have been upgraded over the course of their service life incorporating new equipment such as missile warning and protection systems and night vision goggle compatible cockpits. Due to the types ability to haul larger and heavier payloads than the NH90, further life extensions for these elderly helicopters are envisioned, extending their service life to approximately the year 2030.
Picture ID:1207178