Jolly Green Giant same as CH-53?

Actually the "Jolly Green Giant" was a version of Sikorsky's H-3 airframe (HH-3). The "Super Jolly Green Giant" was based off the H-53 (HH-53B). Over the years the USAF has upgraded the Super Jolly Greens to what is now the MH-53J with the PAVE LOW III system. Comparing it with what the Marine Corps flies, it's similar to the CH-53D airframe. The Marines also fly the CH-53E (larger version of the CH-53D) and the Navy flies the MH-53E, primarily used for Mine Counter Measures (MCM) and Vertical Onboard Delivery (VOD). The Navy uses HH-60H for SAR and CSAR. This will soon migrate to the MH-60S. The Marines use the CH-53E for TRAP missions (similar to CSAR) but with a platoon reinforced inside.

From FAS.org;

QUOTE: The CH-3E was the USAF version of the Sikorsky S-61 amphibious transport helicopter developed for the U.S. Navy. The USAF initially operated six Navy HSS-2 (SH-3A) versions of the S-61 in 1962, eventually designating them CH-3A/Bs. They were so successful the USAF ordered 75, modified as CH-3Cs, featuring a new rear fuselage design with a ramp for vehicles and other cargo. The first CH-3C was flown on June 17, 1963. When 41 CH-3Cs were updated with more powerful engines in 1966, they were redesignated as CH-3Es. Forty-five more were newly manufactured. Later, 50 CH-3Es were modified for combat rescue missions with armor, defensive armament, self-sealing fuel tanks, a rescue hoist, and in-flight refueling capability. They were redesignated HH-3Es and used extensively in Vietnam under the nickname "Jolly Green Giant."

And also;

QUOTE: The MH-53J Pave Low is a modified version of the HH-53 Super Jolly Green Giant helicopter used extensively during the Vietnam War for special operations and rescue of combat personnel. During past space programs, the HH-53 was on duty at the launch site as the primary astronaut recovery vehicle. Under the Air Force's Pave Low IIIE program, nine MH-53H's and 32 HH-53s were modified for night and adverse weather operations and designated MH-53J's. Their modifications included forward-looking infrared, iner tial global positioning system, Doppler navigation systems, a terrain-following and terrain-avoidance radar, an on-board computer and integrated avionics to enable precise navigation to and from target areas.

Cheers,
Albert

Thanks Dragonfire,
so they are the same?[%)] or am I wrong
thanks for all the help

If the question was, "Is the Jolly Green Giant the same as a CH-53?"....then the answer is No. The "SUPER Jolly Green Giant" is based off the H-53.

You can also reference Squadron Signal's pubs, "H-53 Sea Stallion In Action" (Aircraft Number 174, Vol# 1174) and "H-3 Sea King In Action" (Aircraft Number 150, Vol# 1150).

thanks again, thats what I get for opening my mouth
you would think I could keep it shut

Believe me, I've been a victim of my own mouth/stupidity MANY a time. I'm slowly learning...

Another question,
can the RG 48th CH53G be converted to a USMC 53E?
I know it has an extra engine and the tail and main rotor system is different, but is the main fuselage the same and is there a conversion kit out there?

The fuselage is longer, there are more rotor blades, the tail is canted +++
But it IS possible, if you like the extra work...

Winnie's right, it'll take A LOT of extra work to convert it. The CH-53D/G airframe is also slightly smaller (overall) than the 53E.

I'd say it'd be easier to scratchbuild an Echo than convert a Delta into an echo. Everything is bigger in the Echo. The noses are similar, but everything from the crew door back is completely different. The Main Rotor pylons have very diffent shapes. The sponsons are bigger on the Echo. The tail pylon is larger and canted on the echo. The tail stabilizer (I had to repair one last night) is Bent on the Echo. As far as the H-53 series goes, the CH-53E's and MH-53E's are completely diffent airframes than the other A, B, C, D, G, GS and MH-53J models. P.S. England's Royal Air Force is buying 80 CH-53E's.

RidleUSMC: The UK buying them to replace or augment their CH-47s?

I don't know if they will be replacing or augmenting. A gunny gave me that little tid-bit of info last July.

CH-47s are nice birds, but I'll always have a heart for $hitters.

CH-47s are nice birds, but I'll always have a heart for %hitters.