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2023-07-10

Exploring Helicopter Types for a Vertical Perspective

Military Helicopters: Part 1

The impact of ageing fleets on the military helicopter market is significant, prompting nations to pursue the replacement of outdated platforms with advanced and capable alternatives.

Many countries have relied on their helicopter fleets for several decades, resulting in approaching the end of their operational lifespan. To keep them going, expensive maintenance and repairs are necessary.

Moreover, older helicopters often lack the performance, range, and advanced avionics and weapons systems found in newer models.

Hence, there is a noticeable surge in demand for advanced and latest helicopter technologies.

This heightened demand creates a major opportunity for helicopter manufacturers to design and offer novel platforms that effectively address the evolving needs of military customers. The necessity to replace ageing helicopter fleets has also created a need for aftermarket services, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), as well as upgrade and modernisation, along with spare parts.

Application-based Classification

Military helicopters can be classified into several categories based on their roles and capabilities.

Some classifications based on their application include:

Attack Helicopters: These helicopters are designed specifically for engaging and destroying enemy targets, such as armoured vehicles, enemy positions, and other ground or air threats. They are equipped with advanced weapons systems, such as guided missiles, cannons, and rockets.

Transport Helicopters: These helicopters are used for transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to and from the battlefield. They have a larger cargo capacity and are equipped with seating arrangements or cargo hooks for carrying personnel or equipment.

Reconnaissance and Surveillance Helicopters: These are equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and other surveillance systems to gather intelligence and provide real-time situational awareness to military forces.

Search and Rescue (SAR) Helicopters: SAR helicopters are specialised for conducting search and rescue operations in both military and civilian settings. They are equipped with medical equipment, hoists, and other rescue systems to locate and evacuate individuals in distress.

Utility Helicopters: Utility helicopters serve a variety of roles, including general transportation, medical evacuation (medevac), cargo hauling, and other support functions.

Naval Helicopters: They are specifically designed for operations from naval vessels, such as aircraft carriers, frigates, and amphibious assault ships. They are often equipped for anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and transportation of personnel and supplies over water.

Training Helicopters: These are primarily used for training military pilots. They are designed to simulate the flight characteristics of more advanced helicopters and provide hands-on training for pilots in operational scenarios.

Others: This category encompasses helicopters that serve specific roles not covered by the above classifications. It may include helicopters used for electronic warfare, command and control, air ambulance services, aerial firefighting, and other applications.

Classification based on Type

In the military, helicopters can be classified into different categories, including light, medium, and heavy. These classifications are determined by factors such as size, weight, payload capacity, and operational roles. By convention used worldwide, helicopters are categorised by weight and payload capacity.

If we consider classification based on weight, then light helicopters are those generally considered below 12,000 pounds maximum gross weight. “Medium lift” are usually considered those from about 14,000 pounds to 45,000. There is some disagreement in terminology regarding the use of “heavy lift.” Some within the industry refer to helicopters above 50,000 pounds as “heavy lift” while others reserve this term for the very largest helicopters, above 80,000 pounds.

If classified based on payload, the heavy lift helicopters are those capable of lifting an external load of 15,000 pounds or more. Medium lift helicopters have external-load capacities of 2,000-15,000 pounds, and light helicopters, which are generally used for utility purposes, have still lower lifting capacities.

The selection of an appropriate helicopter size for a specific application is based on the size and value of the material being extracted.

Now, let’s delve into each individual type:

Light Military Helicopters

Light military helicopters form a distinct classification of rotorcraft specifically designed and employed for various military purposes. These are distinguished by their compact size, lighter weight, and agile performance, which make them highly suitable for missions that demand manoeuvrability, adaptability and versatility.

Light military helicopters are employed in a range of roles and missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, light attack, utility tasks, and transportation of personnel and light equipment.

Their compact size and agility allow them to operate effectively in confined spaces, urban environments, and areas with limited landing zones.

One of the primary roles of light military helicopters is reconnaissance and surveillance. Equipped with advanced sensor systems, these helicopters can gather real-time intelligence, conduct aerial surveillance, and provide valuable situational awareness to military forces.

Light military helicopters can also serve in light attack roles, providing fire support and engaging targets in combat situations.

Here are some examples of light military helicopters along with their key characteristics.

Airbus UH-72 Lakota: Selected in June 2006 following a rigorous evaluation, UH-72 Lakota combines operational capability, reliability and affordability, fulfilling all of the Army’s requirements for speed, range, endurance and overall performance. As an in-production helicopter with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) certification, it meets the Army’s commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) acquisition strategy.

The Lakota is based off the technologically-advanced and operationally-proven H145 helicopter, which is used worldwide for law enforcement, emergency medical transportation, search and rescue, offshore and utility operations, and corporate transportation.

Airbus UH-72 Lakota/Sikorsky S-97 RAIDER: RAIDER is a next-generation light tactical prototype helicopter capable of carrying six troops and external weapons that will redefine helicopter flight during the 21st century.

Based on Sikorsky’s Collier Award-winning X2 Technology, it incorporates the latest advances in fly-by-wire, flight controls, vehicle management systems, and systems integration.

These technologies enable the aircraft to operate at high speeds while maintaining the low-speed handling qualities and manoeuvrability of conventional single main rotor helicopters. RAIDER can reach speeds of more than 220 knots, nearly double the speed of a conventional helicopter.

Airbus H125M: Airbus’ two-tonne H125M (formerly the AS550 C3e Fennec) responds to military requirements for a cost-effective armed platform with a very small footprint and excellent manoeuvrability.

The H125M is tailored for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) and attack missions. It relies on the qualities of power, simplicity, firing stability and stealth to carry out a diverse range of demanding missions.

It can be equipped with Airbus’ HForce weapons system — a comprehensive, modular and cost-efficient weapon system that can be used on any military version of Airbus’ civil helicopter range (H125M, H145M and H225M).

This helicopter benefits from easy-to-fly qualities that are inherent in Airbus’ single-engine Ecureuil family, which holds the world altitude record (landing on Mount Everest at 8,848 metres), and is fully operational in high and hot environments.

Leonardo AW169M: The AW169M, derived from the civilian AW169 model, represents an advanced light intermediate twin-engine helicopter. It showcases versatile capabilities, allowing it to operate effectively in a range of scenarios, including austere, urban, and challenging environments, even during day and night missions.

The helicopter boasts a maximum gross weight of 4,600 kg (10,141 lb).

Advanced avionics and systems enhance its multi-role capabilities. The single/dual-pilot VFR/IFR NVG-compatible integrated glass cockpit reduces pilot workload and maximises external visibility, allowing the crew to concentrate on the mission.

Powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210A engines, with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC), combined with the advanced rotor system provide superior ‘hot and high’ performance.

Rosoboronexport Ansat: Designed to transport personnel, cargo, and equipment either within its cargo compartment or via external sling, the Ansat light multipurpose helicopter excels in undertaking specialised missions to meet the requirements of diverse customers.

It can be utilised in several configurations, including search and rescue, medical evacuation, training, passenger and cargo transport, as well as VIP transportation.

The helicopter is designed to carry personnel (up to 10 people), transport cargo and equipment inside its cargo compartment (up to 1,000 kg) or on external sling (up to 1,300 kg), as well as perform special tasks in the interests of different customers.

Medium Military Helicopters

Medium military helicopters are a category of rotorcraft that fall between light and heavy helicopters in terms of size, weight, payload capacity, and operational capabilities.

These are purpose-built to serve a diverse range of military roles and missions, offering a harmonious combination of mobility and carrying capacity.

These are employed in various operational roles, including troop transportation, combat support, search and rescue, medical evacuation, and special operations.

They are known for their versatility and flexibility, allowing them to adapt to different mission requirements and operational environments.

A key advantage of medium military helicopters is their increased payload capacity compared to light helicopters. They can transport a larger number of troops, equipment, and supplies, making them suitable for missions that require the movement of larger forces or heavier loads.

Medium military helicopters are also utilised for search and rescue (SAR) operations. Their payload capacity and endurance enable them to carry specialised SAR equipment, such as hoists, winches, and medical evacuation facilities.

Here are a few examples of medium lift military helicopters along with their key characteristics:

Sikorsky UH-60M Black Hawk: The Sikorsky Black Hawk is the U.S. Army’s primary medium-lift helicopter, adept at carrying out a broad spectrum of missions. These include Air Assault, MEDEVAC (Medical Evacuation), CSAR (Combat Search and Rescue), Command and Control operations, and VIP transport.

The Black Hawk multirole helicopter serves with the U.S. military and the armed forces of 34 other countries worldwide as a reliable utility helicopter.

At 9,979 kg / 22,000 lbs. max. gross weight, the utility version of the helicopter transports 12 fully equipped, seated troops into the heat of battle.

Airbus Helicopters H225M Caracal: The 11-tonne medium lift category, twin-turbine H225M is counted on as a force multiplier by many air forces worldwide thanks to its outstanding endurance and fast cruise speed. It enables military forces to deploy wherever and whenever needed.

Operating both from ships and land — even in icy conditions — this helicopter has an all-weather capability supported by night vision goggle compatibility.

The helicopter’s outstanding 700 nautical mile range can be extended with air-to-air or hover in-flight refuelling capabilities.

Powered by two powerful Makila 2A1 turboshaft engines, the H225M’s five-blade main rotor provides an exceptionally low vibration level, and the modular Spheriflex design for its rotor mechanical assemblies allows for lower maintenance.

Leonardo AW149: It is a medium-lift military helicopter optimised for a multitude of battlefield missions such as troop transport and re-supply/external load lift; medical and casualty evacuation; Search and Rescue (SAR) and Personnel Recovery; special forces operations; close air support/armed escort; Command and Control (C2); and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR). It has a maximum gross weight of 8,300 kg (18,298 lb).

The open architecture mission system enables the effective integration of mission-specific and customer-specific equipment, avionics, weapons and defence systems. The helicopter is day/night capable with a single pilot Night Vision Goggle (NVG) compatible, low workload glass cockpit.

The helicopter ensures unparalleled crew safety. Contributing to its superior battle survivability are high levels of ballistic tolerance of the blades, airframe and components, crashworthy fuselage and seats, energy-absorbing landing gear and structure.

MIL Mi-38: The first serial Mi-38 helicopter was introduced to the general public at MAKS-2019 International Aviation and Space Salon Mi-38’s foreign debut took place during the Dubai Airshow 2019 air show.

The design of Mi-38 is based on a single-rotor scheme and a twin-engine power plant. The helicopter is made by Kazan Helicopters. The rotorcraft has two TV7-117V engines made in Russia, which are equipped with devices that protect them from dust and ensure high quality of air purification.

The main structural elements of Mi-38 fuselage are made of aluminium alloys, individual components and parts are made of steel, titanium and composite materials.

Heavy Military Helicopters

Heavy lift helicopters surpass both medium and light lift helicopters in size and sturdiness. Specifically designed for military operations, they excel in transporting heavy cargo, equipment, and personnel. They possess the capability to carry sizeable loads over extended distances and operate efficiently in diverse environments, including combat zones and challenging conditions.

Heavy lift helicopters typically feature twin or multiple engines to provide sufficient power and redundancy for safe and reliable operations. They are equipped with advanced avionics and systems to enhance navigation, situational awareness, and mission capabilities.

This includes sophisticated autopilot systems, radar, communication systems, and self-defence mechanisms.

They often have specialised cargo handling systems, such as internal cargo bays, external hooks, or hoists.

Let’s explore the key features of some heavy lift military helicopters:

Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion: The CH-53E Super Stallion is the heavy-lift helicopter used by U.S. Marines around the world. It is capable of rapidly transporting troops and equipment from ship-to-shore, launching amphibious assaults, facilitating logistics and maintenance, providing sustainment and supplies, and equipping the warfighter for mission success.

The powerful Super Stallion is capable of lifting heavy military equipment, yet compact enough to fit onboard an amphibious warfare ship where it can take off carrying 16 tonnes of cargo and deliver it 50 miles away before returning to base.

The successor of CH-53E Super Stallion is CH-53K King Stallion. Built to thrive on the modern battlefield, including shipboard operations, the CH-53K aircraft is designed to be intelligent, reliable, low maintenance and survivable in the most austere and remote forward operating bases.

Boeing CH-47 Chinook: The Boeing CH-47 Chinook is a tandem rotor helicopter developed by American rotorcraft company Vertol and manufactured by Boeing Vertol. The Chinook is a heavy-lift helicopter that is among the heaviest lifting Western helicopters.

The first fully equipped Army Chinook, designated the CH-47A, entered service in August 1962 with a gross weight of 33,000 pounds (14,969 kilogrammes).

Boeing introduced the CH-47B in 1966 with an improved airframe and power plant provided by the T55-l-7C engines. The gross weight rose to 40,000 pounds (18,144 kilogrammes).

The CH-47F is an advanced multimission helicopter with a fully integrated, digital cockpit management system, Common Avionics Architecture Cockpit and advanced cargo-handling capabilities.

Mil Mi-26: Mil Mi-26 is a Soviet/Russian heavy transport helicopter. Operated by both military and civilian operators, it is the largest helicopter to have gone into serial production.

The Mi-26 was the first factory-equipped helicopter with a single, eight-blade main lift rotor. It is capable of flight in the event of power loss by one engine (depending on aircraft mission weight) because of an engine load sharing system. While its empty weight is only slightly higher than the Mi-6’s, the Mi-26 has a payload of up to 20 tonnes.

The Mi-26T2 version is designed to provide airlifting of self-propelled machinery (both wheeled and tracked) and non-self-propelled machinery, bulky cargoes weighing up to 20 tonnes both in the cargo cabin and on external sling.

Varied Categorisations

The classification of helicopters into these types may differ among various military organisations and countries. The categorisation can vary based on specific needs, operational doctrines, and technological advancements.

Additionally, there may be subcategories or further classifications within each type based on additional factors like avionics systems, weapon capabilities, and mission-specific configurations.

(In the upcoming issues, we will delve into the fascinating realm of helicopter classification based on applications, beginning with Attack Helicopters).

Reference Text/Photo:

www.af.mil, www.lockheedmartin.com, www.leonardo.com

www.roe.com, www.airbus.com

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