What does "Sea Stallion" mean?

Short answer

"Sea Stallion" was the military title given to Sikorsky's S-65A when it was chosen as the Marine Corps' heavy assault transport, with the designation CH-53A. The CH-53E Super Stallion eventually succeeded it.

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

CH-53D HMM-261 Grenada Okt1983

A name straight from the military catalogue

In August 1962, the US Navy, which handles procurement for the Marine Corps, announced that the S-65A had been selected as the new heavy assault transport for the Marine Corps, with the military designation CH-53A Sea Stallion. The order for the CH-53A to serve with the USMC was placed that same August 1962.

Flight, deliveries, and combat

The YCH-53A made its first flight on 14 October 1964. Deliveries began in mid-1966. Deployments to Vietnam began in January 1967. In its initial configuration, the CH-53 was fitted with two General Electric T64-6 turboshafts rated at 2,850 shp (2,130 kW) each.

From Stallion to Super Stallion

US Air Force versions included the HH-53B, HH-53C, and CH-53C for combat search and rescue. The USAF introduced the HH-53 "Super Jolly Green Giant," configured for special operations and combat rescue. VFW-Fokker built 110 aircraft under license as the CH-53G. The similar-looking CH-53E Super Stallion is an improved version with greater lift capacity, designated S-80E by Sikorsky. That even larger model eventually replaced the Sea Stallion.