Which Navy helicopter could hunt mines and detonate them?

Short answer

The Sikorsky RH-53D Sea Stallion, the airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) variant of the CH-53D. It carried mine-sweeping equipment and two 0.50 BMG (12.7 mm) Browning machine guns to detonate them. The U.S. Navy received 30 RH-53Ds starting in 1973.

Published: November 1, 2026 · Updated: November 1, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

Which Navy helicopter could hunt mines and detonate them?

KC-130F refueling RH-53D 1973

A variant born for mines

The RH-53D was the airborne mine countermeasures (AMCM) variant of the Sikorsky S-65, configured for mine detection, sweeping, and neutralization. It was developed in 1973 to meet the U.S. Navy's need for an improved AMCM helicopter. Its primary role was AMCM, with a secondary mission of cargo delivery between ships. It was based on the CH-53D and added 0.50-caliber machine guns and provision for in-flight refueling.

Sweeping and detonating

Its sweep equipment included two 0.50 BMG (12.7 mm) Browning machine guns intended to detonate mines. That combination of detection, sweeping, and neutralization equipment defined the aircraft's configuration.

Testing and deliveries

The first production RH-53D Sea Stallion, specifically configured for the airborne mine countermeasures mission, arrived at the Naval Air Test Center in May 1973 for weapons system trials. The Navy then ordered 30 specially equipped Sea Stallions, designated RH-53D, delivered between 1973 and 1974. A total of 30 aircraft were received, with the first units in 1973.