ICM 1/72 Sikorsky CH-54A Tarhe U.S. Heavy Lift Helicopter # 72001

SKU

ICM72001

Due Soon!

Type:

1/72 Aircraft

EAN

4823044412044

Special Price £80.99 was £89.99

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Details

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’s first 1/72 scale model of the CH-54A Tarhe heavy military helicopter
- The helicopter’s 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

More Information

More Information
SKU	ICM72001
Manufacturer	ICM
Scale	1/72
EAN	4823044412044
Short Description	The Sikorsky CH-54 Tarhe—known as the CH-54A in its early production form—was one of the most powerful and unusual helicopters ever built. Developed by Sikorsky Aircraft, it was designed as a flying crane, capable of lifting massive loads that no conventional helicopter could handle. Its name “Tarhe” comes from a Native American leader, but it became far better known by its nickname: the “Skycrane.” Unique Design Unlike traditional helicopters, the CH-54A featured a minimal skeletal fuselage, built entirely around its lifting role: - Open-frame structure to reduce weight - High-mounted cockpit with excellent visibility - Large central space to carry external loads This design allowed it to lift cargo such as: - Artillery pieces - Vehicles and bulldozers - Downed aircraft - Pre-fabricated structures It could even carry specially designed cargo pods, turning it into a temporary transport helicopter. Vietnam War Role The CH-54A saw extensive service with the United States Army during the Vietnam War: - Recovering damaged or crashed aircraft from difficult terrain - Moving heavy equipment into remote jungle bases - Supporting engineering and logistics operations Its ability to operate in confined landing zones made it invaluable in the challenging environment of Southeast Asia. Performance and Capability The CH-54A was powered by twin engines and had extraordinary lifting capacity for its time. It could: - Carry loads of over 10 tons externally - Precisely position cargo using its crane-like capabilities - Operate in harsh and remote conditions Legacy The CH-54A Tarhe laid the foundation for later heavy-lift helicopters, including the civilian S-64 Skycrane, which continues to operate today in roles such as firefighting and heavy construction. Its distinctive appearance and unmatched lifting ability made it one of the most iconic helicopters of the Vietnam era—a true workhorse of aerial logistics and recovery.