| The Marine Corps, in a search for a new heavy lift helicopter, placed its initial order for the CH-53A Sea Stallion in August 1962. At that time, it was the largest helicopter design available in the U.S. Navy BIS trials were completed in October 1966 and included 132 day and night LPH carrier landings. HMH-463, MCAF Santa Ana, completed its fleet indoctrination program with the Sea Stallion two weeks later. The CH-53's primary mission is to move cargo and equipment. It has a secondary role of transferring troops ashore in an amphibious assault. CH-53Ds, with improved engines and increased power, are also used to recover downed aircraft, sweep mined areas and, if necessary, tow distressed ships. The texture is for Israel Airforce. | 
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