CLB

31 May 2023 | Cpl. Aidan Hekker 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit

The helicopter support team is responsible for the rapid transportation of cargo via helicopter when it cannot be transported by ground or needs to be transported from ship to shore. In this exercise, the HST partnered with a CH-53E Super Stallion attached to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361 to test a new lift operation method utilizing wheel-nets to carry a Polaris MRZR, an ultra-light turbo diesel combat vehicle.With a lift capacity of 36,000 pounds, the Super Stallion effortlessly lifted the 2,100-pound Razor. However, the primary focus of the training exercise was on the stability and speed that the wheel-nets provided. As both teams completed runs, they discussed the chain and cable tension points to improve load stability. This allowed the helicopter to fly faster, mitigating concerns about losing the load.The exercise was part of a comprehensive training program aimed at preparing the teams for various scenarios they may encounter during the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit's deployment.