Originally built for the United States Navy, the H-43 Huskie was the first helicopter purchased by the United States Air Force (USAF) specifically for airborne fire fighting and air base crash rescue. Piston-engine HH-43As entered service in 1958. Deliveries of turbine-powered HH-43Bs began in 1959. The turbine engine enabled the Huskie to fly faster, farther and carry a heavier load.

In May 1964 USAF HH-43s deployed to Vietnam and Thailand, where they took on the additional role of combat rescue. Many of the lessons learned in combat were incorporated into the next production model, the HH-43F. The “F” model featured a more powerful engine, a new hoist and armor plating to protect the crew and vital systems. Most of the “B” model aircraft were eventually brought up to “F” standards. The HH-43 remained the primary search and rescue helicopter in Southeast Asia until the introduction of the HH-3 “Jolly Green Giant.” The last HH-43 was retired in April 1973.

The Warner Robins Air Logistics Center was responsible for the logistics management of all USAF helicopters including the HH-43 series. In addition, the administrative headquarters for the Eastern Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Center (EARCC) was located at Robins during the 1960s and early 1970s. The EARRC oversaw detachments of HH-43s at 15 bases between the Atlantic seaboard and the Mississippi River.

The Museum’s HH-43F, serial number 58-1853, was originally built as a “B” model and delivered to the USAF on 17 February 1960. In 1970 the aircraft was returned to Kaman and upgraded to HH-43F standards. During its operational service, 58-1853 operated at several bases in the United States, including Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland. The helicopter was dropped from the USAF inventory in March 1973 and came to the Museum of Aviation in 1988. 58-1853 is marked as 58-1845, an HH-43F assigned to the 38th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, Detachment 1, that crashed at Phan Rang Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, on October 10th, 1968. All 5 crewmembers were killed.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Rotor diameter 47 feet
Overall Length 47 feet
Height 17 feet 2 inches
Weight 9,150 lbs. max
Armament None
Engines Lycoming T53-L-1B
Cost $304,000
Serial Number 58-1853

PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed 120 mph
Cruising speed 97 mph
Range 235 miles
Service Ceiling 27,700 feet