Giving a guided tour of the mock-up search and rescue helicopter, two former USAF pararescumen today showed reporters the ins and outs of the helicopter. One demonstrated how a CSAR crew could perform live gunnery operations right next to the side door where the hoist and rescue ladder are stationed. The crew can also hoist in a litter while extricating personnel via the door’s ladder. The rear bay door allows near-360-degree firing for any older weapons (from .50 caliber weapons to M60s) and permits access to vehicles, such as ATVs or small boats. Inside, the cabin can be quickly configured to carry up to nine litters. The crew can monitor information via on-board network displays, tapping in to personnel medical records, topographical maps, or UAV and FLIR data, according to Lockheed Martin’s Fred Keller.
The crews of the two-ship F-15E formation that stared down the leading edge of Iran’s massive aerial assault against Israel in April 2024 were presented with the Mackay Trophy last week, further cementing their place in Air Force history.
