Like many other technical advancements, the world’s biggest aerospace companies compete to create the biggest helicopter, with the most recent invention winning out. The largest helicopter in the world has undergone several title changes throughout the year. So, what is the biggest helicopter in the world right now? The answer is below!
Let’s examine the largest military cargo helicopters, showcasing technological achievements in aerial lifting from the past as well as the present.
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Top 10 World’s Largest Helicopters
The largest helicopters with the most impressive lifting power are the Mil Mi-26 and the Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion. The former can handle 2 tons or 44,000 pounds of cargo, while the latter’s max lifting capacity is 36,000 pounds. More details will be revealed below.
10. Boeing Vertol 234 Chinook
Military forces all over the globe employ the Vertol 234 Chinook for a number of missions, such as air assault, troop transport, and equipment and supply transfer. The manufacturer gave this model a twin-rotor design, which offers remarkable lift and agility.
It is capable of transporting big supplies and equipment over great distances and in difficult locations, with a max payload of up to 25,000 pounds externally. So, you can expect an impressive maximum takeoff weight, which is 70,000 lbs.
Due to its adaptability and dependability, the Chinook has been utilized in several wars and relief operations for natural disasters, making it a vital instrument for both military and civilian missions.
9. Eurocopter AS332 Super Puma
The Super Puma can easily transport equipment and people over great distances, having the ability to carry up to 20 people. Because of its sophisticated equipment and avionics, this big military helicopter is dependable and efficient, and operators choose it because of its long lifespan and low maintenance requirements.
Since this one is among the heavy-lift aircraft, its power is quite impressive. The AS332 Super Puma may lift up to 21,605 pounds at takeoff, while its maximum external lift capacity is 10,582 pounds.
8. Mil Mi-6
With a max payload of up to 12 tons, the Mil Mi-6 stands out for its size and lifting capacity. It was built to do a range of jobs, such as mining and construction work and the transportation of soldiers, supplies, and equipment.
The Mil Mi-6 is equipped with a cargo hook that was specifically built to lift up to the amount of 22,000 pounds. Thus, it is utilized for airborne crane operations. Because of its sturdy design and cutting-edge avionics and equipment for its time, the Mi-6 was able to function in various environmental conditions.
7. Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane
The Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane stands out for having an unusual twin-engine configuration and an exterior payload capacity of up to 20,000 pounds. Initially, it was created to be employed in missions such as logging, building, and battling fires. Its strong engines and lifting capacity allow it to operate in several conditions. The cruise speed is up to 132 mph, which is great for such a big aircraft.
As part of its firefighting capabilities, the Skycrane also has a retractable snorkel system. This enables it to collect water from rivers and lakes. Plus, the S-64 is perfect for missions needing extreme power and pinpoint precision because of its ground-breaking center-spine airframe, which enhances lift capacity and significantly decreases payload shift.
6. Kamov Ka-32
This Kamov Ka-32 is another well-known heavy-lift helicopter originally designed in Russia. The medium-sized, Russian-built Ka-32 can support an internal load of more than 8,820 pounds, but its true power is found in its capacity to support a load of as much as 11,025 pounds in the sling (more than 5 tons). Cargo may be delivered to far-off places without an appropriate landing spot, thanks to the sling.
What makes the Ka-32 such a powerful machine? Its durable design enables it to function in many conditions, and its sophisticated avionics and equipment make it a dependable and effective aircraft. Plus, due to its adaptability, this Russian helicopter has seen extensive service globally and is a preferred option for search and rescue missions in isolated and mountainous regions.
5. Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey
The combat range of the V-22 Osprey and its top speed is around 275 knots, which is quite impressive. Its remarkable capabilities allow it to respond swiftly to a variety of military missions, even in remote areas. The V-22 can carry around 24 combat soldiers or up to 15,000 pounds externally or 20,000 pounds internally, and it can go over 1,000 miles on a single charge.
The V-22 can enable special operations troops’ infiltration and exfiltration anywhere, at any time, day or night, thanks to its terrain-following radar and improved survivability qualities. Moreover, the range, speed, payload, and vertical lift of the V-22 ensure that all the critical supplies arrive when and where they are needed.
4. Boeing CH-47F Chinook
This aircraft is a heavy-lift, tandem-rotor helicopter that is extensively utilized by armed forces globally. This Boeing CH-47F Chinook comes with dual-rotor systems, bringing 10,138 horsepower. With two engines, five gearboxes, and six blades, this machine can lift 26,000 pounds. To make it easier to imagine, this amount equals 5 Ford F-150s.
Why do military personnel love the CH-47F Chinook, you ask? It is a dependable and effective aircraft thanks to its sophisticated avionics and specialized equipment. The Chinook is suitable for several missions, such as military operations, humanitarian assistance missions, and disaster relief initiatives.
3. Mil Mi-10
The Mil Mi-10 is a heavy-lift helicopter from the Soviet period that was intended to deliver supplies and heavy machinery to isolated areas. This powerful aircraft is renowned for its distinctive double-rotor design, which offers remarkable lift capacity. This big military helicopter can lift up to 26,460 pounds externally and has a maximum takeoff weight of 62,170 pounds.
Apart from its lifting power, the Mi-10 was equipped with a crane arm that could be utilized for cargo loading and unloading as well as aircraft maintenance. The Mil Mi-10 was used for many different purposes, including mining, construction, and the transporting of large loads, with a max payload capacity of more than 12 tons. Thus, it is a monument to Soviet engineering and an important piece of aviation history.
2. Sikorsky CH-53K King Stallion
With its cutting-edge flight control systems and avionics, the CH-53K offers improved fly handling and situation awareness. Its sophisticated sensors and navigation systems allow it to function in a variety of situations. The King Stallion comes with three T408-GE-400 engines that provide more power, improved fuel efficiency, and decreased pollution.
Here is a shocking statistic: it can take off with a maximum weight of 85,000 pounds. With the ability to carry 36,000-pound worth of external load, which is more than three times the capability of the CH-53E, this huge helicopter establishes new standards for heavy-lift capabilities.
The King Stallion is intended to transport vehicles, supplies, and soldiers from ships to the beach. If centerline seats are fitted, it can also transport heavy weaponry, an LAV-25 armored vehicle, a variety of vehicle types, and up to 55 soldiers.
1. Mil Mi-26
The Mil Mi-26 is one of the biggest and most potent heavy-lift helicopters. It can easily take off with a max weight of about 123,000 pounds.
The Mi-26 has been used for military transport, search and rescue operations, and humanitarian relief efforts because of its remarkable heavy-lifting capabilities. Because of its sophisticated equipment and avionics, this efficient aircraft is dependable and efficient, and its sturdy design enables it to function in a variety of environmental conditions.
This massive chopper can carry 44,000 pounds or 20 tons of cargo, 60 stretchers, or 90 troops in total. With such a remarkable capacity, the Mil-Mi-26 aircraft is utilized to transport military equipment. Notably, in 1999, it carried a whopping 23 tons of frozen soil from Siberia to Russia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most Feared Helicopter?
The AH-64 Apache can be considered the most feared helicopter as it is the all-time fastest one among the military attack aircraft. This is because of its sophisticated technology, potent weaponry, and adaptability in combat scenarios. It is equipped with a 30mm M230 chain gun, Hydra rockets, and Hellfire missiles, among other weaponry, and can travel at a speed of up to 172 mph.
Are Helicopters Deadlier Than Planes?
Not really. It depends on the mission they are on. Helicopters perform better in close air support and troop transport but are limited in range and payload compared to planes. Meanwhile, planes excel in air superiority, strategic bombing, and long-range missions but may lack the agility for certain tasks.
What Country Has The Strongest Helicopter?
The United States is widely regarded as having some of the most advanced and powerful helicopters in the world. Aircraft like the UH-60 Black Hawk and AH-64 Apache are examples of American helicopters known for their combat capabilities, versatility, and advanced technology.
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The Bottom Line
The largest and strongest helicopters in the world are amazing vehicles that are made to operate in the riskiest environments and endure the most severe weather and terrain. With the rapid pace of technological improvement, is it likely that the biggest army helicopter will soon be larger, faster, and maybe even all-electric? Share your thoughts with us!
