The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported on 16/1 that they deployed a CH-53 heavy-lift helicopter to transport a UH-60 Black Hawk combat helicopter. The UH-60 had been damaged three days prior during an emergency landing in an open area in the Gush Etzion region amidst severe weather.

During the recovery operation, the UH-60's rotors were removed. A drogue parachute was attached to its tail to prevent rotation while the CH-53 transported it via cable. However, during transit, the cable detached, and the UH-60 fell freely, plunging nose-first down a slope next to a residential area.

Images from the scene show the UH-60 with its tail section broken off and lying on its side on the mountainside. No casualties have been reported related to the incident. Israeli air force commander Tomer Bar has ordered the military to establish a committee to investigate.

The CH-53 helicopter has long been a primary choice for external load air transport missions, especially for the US Marine Corps. These aircraft can quickly extract damaged equipment and vehicles from remote, isolated areas.

External load transport is a complex operation. The suspension cables must be strong enough to withstand heavy loads, and the configuration of the suspension system, along with the pitch and roll angles, requires careful pre-calculation.

The scene of the UH-60 helicopter crash on 16/1. Photo: X/Clash Report.

Israel began operating CH-53 helicopters in 1969 and maintains a fleet of about 20 aircraft. Since the 1980s, these helicopters have undergone upgrades to extend their operational lifespan by several decades. Israel has signed an agreement to purchase 12 CH-53K aircraft from the United States to replace its aging fleet.

Pham Giang (According to Times of Israel, War Zone, Breaking Defense)