ICM72001 - Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe U.S. Heavy Lift Helicopter

The Sikorsky CH-54 heavy-lift helicopter was developed to support NATO bases in Europe with fuel, ammunition, and equipment. It was designed and manufactured by Sikorsky Aircraft, a company founded by the renowned aircraft designer of Ukrainian descent, Igor Sikorsky.

The prototype, initially designated S-64, made its first flight on May 9, 1962. Production aircraft, later adopted by the U.S. Army, received the designation CH-54A. Most of these helicopters were deployed to Vietnam, where they were operated by specialised aviation units to transport artillery, ammunition, military vehicles, and various types of cargo.

The CH-54A Tarhe’s outstanding operational capabilities also proved invaluable in the recovery of damaged aircraft. In a document dated December 1968, the U.S. Army reported that 423 aircraft had been recovered, 105 of which were so large and heavy that only the powerful CH-54A Tarhe could evacuate them from difficult-to-access locations.

The helicopter’s winch system allowed it to lift loads while hovering, eliminating the need to land, while its powerful engines enabled it to carry exceptionally heavy payloads. The CH-54A also performed specialised missions, including dropping heavy bombs to clear forested areas for airfield construction. Following the Vietnam War, the CH-54 continued to serve successfully with U.S. Army and National Guard units until the 1990s.

Key Features

• ICM‚Äôs first 1:72 scale model of the CH-54A Tarhe heavy military helicopter
• The helicopter‚Äôs structural elements are accurately reproduced, including the transmission, cargo winches, and landing gear
• The model features detailed rivet detail on the fuselage
• It can be built with or without engine air filters, and includes two landing-gear strut options
• The kit includes a decal sheet with four marking options from different time periods

Markings Available

• Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe 67-18420, 273rd Aviation Company, Vietnam, 1968
• Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe 67-18426, 101st Airborne Division, Vietnam, 1968
• Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe 68-18455, 295th Aviation Company, Frankfurt, 1976
• Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe 67-18428, 1160th Aviation Company (Transportation Company), Georgia, 1980s

Model Information

• Scale: 1:72
• Number of Parts: 332
• Length: 367 mm
• Width: 271 mm
• Includes detailed assembly instructions
• Highly detailed sprues with high accuracy made from quality plastic
• EAN: 4823044412044
• Carton quantity: 20
• Box size: 295 x 225 x 40 mm