Super Stallions use heavy-lift capabilities

[SR-25]

AL ASAD, Iraq (Jan 11, 2005) -- Marines from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and 1st Force Service Support Group teamed up recently at Al Asad, Iraq to move targets to a shooting range for aerial gunners.

The targets, consisting of two unserviceable Assault Amphibian Vehicles and three junked Iraqi armored personnel carriers, were moved externally by two CH-53E Super Stallions from Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 166 (reinforced), Marine Aircraft Group 16, utilizing the helicopters’ heavy lifting capabilities to bring each load of nearly 25-thousand pounds to the drop-off site.

The aviation Marines were assisted by Landing Support Company, Combat Service Support Battalion 7. The landing support Marines braved the helicopters hurricane-like winds to attach the loads to the dual-point lifting systems of the Super Stallions.

The team effort allowed the safe transport of the five targets for use by the pilots and gunners of 3rd MAW as they practice close air and armed reconnaissance support for I Marine Expeditionary Force.