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History of the HH-43B Huskie
Adapted from the Kaman H-43A, in 1959, the HH-43B became the next variant of rescue mission helicopters. These aircraft served during the Vietnam War aiding boats patrolling the Mekong Delta. Support in this region included rescue missions and firefighting operations. For example, it carried two firefighters with 1,000 pounds of firefighting and rescue gear as well as water, foam or compressed nitrogen to put out aircraft fires, if needed.
Kaman HH-43B Huskie
Serial Number: 62-4561
Manufacturer: Kaman Aircraft Corporation
Crew: One pilot and two rescue/fire fighters
Engines: One Lycoming T-53-L-1B; 860 horsepower
Wingspan: 47 feet
Length: 25 feet 2 inches
Height: 15 feet 6.5 inches
Weight: 9,150 pounds (maximum)
Speed: 105 mph (cruising); 120 mph (maximum)
Range: 185 miles
Service Ceiling: 25,000 feet
Armament: None
Cost: $304,000
The HH-43B Huskie at Hill Air Force Base
HH-43B aircraft were assigned to the 1550th Aircrew Training and Test Wing, a tenant of Hill Air Force Base, to train combat crews from 1971–1976. The HH-43B on display was manufactured in 1963 and served in Japan, Oklahoma and lastly at Hill Air Force Base for training purposes. In 1988, it was put on display at Hill Aerospace Museum.