Accession Number:

AD0915034

Title:

Performance Tests of a MARS-Modified HH-53C Helicopter

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. 1 Nov 1972-11 Aug 1973

Corporate Author:

AIR FORCE FLIGHT TEST CENTER EDWARDS AFB CA

Personal Author(s):

• Nasal, Timothy P.
• Dunn, Charles R.

Report Date:

1973-10-01

Pagination or Media Count:

216.0

Abstract:

This report presents the results of tests to determine the performance characteristics of a MARS Mid Air Retrieval System -modified HH- 53C helicopter in the clean loading and with the AQM-34L, AQM-34R and AQM-91A drones in tow. No unusual handling qualities were noted when smooth, coordinated flight techniques were used. Hover performance with the AQM-91A drone in tow was unchanged from that of the clean MARS-modified HH-53C when hovering in ground effect. Power required to hover out of ground effect was increased four to six percent by the effects of the AQM-91A in tow. Level flight performance comparisons between the clean MARS-configured HH-53C and the same aircraft with each of the drones in tow revealed a decrease in average maximum nautical air miles per pound of fuel of approximately 12 percent with the AQM-34L drone, 13 percent with the AQM-34R drone, and 34 percent with the AQM-91A drone.

Descriptors:

• *HELICOPTERS
• FLIGHT TESTING
• RECOVERY
• FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEMS
• PERFORMANCE(ENGINEERING)
• TOWED BODIES
• AIRSPEED
• POWER
• DRONES
• LEVEL FLIGHT
• HOVERING
• REQUIREMENTS
• INFLIGHT

Subject Categories:

• Helicopters
• Pilotless Aircraft

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE