Marine One: The Presidential Helicopter

Marine One: The Presidential Helicopter

Marine One is the call sign for any United States Marine Corps helicopter that carries the President of the United States. It is most commonly associated with the Sikorsky VH-3D Sea King, a twin-engine, medium-lift helicopter that has been used to transport the President since the 1960s. The VH-3D is a modified version of the standard Sea King, with added features such as bulletproof armor, a communication suite, and a self-sealing fuel system.

Marine One is a vital part of presidential transportation, providing secure and reliable air travel for the President. The helicopter is often seen transporting the President to and from events and meetings, such as White House events, congressional hearings, and international summits. It is also used to transport the President to and from his official residence, Camp David.

The VH-3D is a large helicopter, with a maximum takeoff weight of 18,000 pounds. It can carry up to 14 passengers, including the President, his staff, and security personnel. The helicopter is powered by two General Electric T58-GE-16B turboshaft engines, which produce a total of 4,500 shaft horsepower. This gives the VH-3D a maximum speed of 150 knots (173 mph) and a range of 500 nautical miles.

The History of Marine One

The first helicopter used to transport the President was a Sikorsky H-34 Choctaw, which was assigned the call sign “Marine One” in 1957. The H-34 was replaced by the Sikorsky SH-3 Sea King in 1961. The Sea King was in turn replaced by the VH-3D Sea King in 1976.

The VH-3D Sea King has been used to transport every President since Gerald Ford. It has been involved in several high-profile events, including the rescue of President Jimmy Carter from a hostage situation in Iran in 1980 and the evacuation of President Ronald Reagan from a shooting in 1981.

The Future of Marine One

The VH-3D Sea King is nearing the end of its service life. The US Marine Corps is currently in the process of replacing the VH-3D with a new helicopter, the Sikorsky VH-92. The VH-92 is a larger and more advanced helicopter than the VH-3D, with improved performance, safety, and security features.

The VH-92 is expected to enter service in the early 2020s. It will be the new “Marine One” for the President of the United States. The VH-92 is a significant upgrade over the VH-3D, and it will provide the President with a safe and reliable means of transportation for many years to come.

Conclusion

Marine One is a vital part of the US President's transportation system. The helicopter is a symbol of presidential power and authority. It is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the US military. The VH-3D Sea King has served the President well, and the VH-92 will continue to do so for many years to come.