CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter

The Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion is the biggest chopper in the U.S. military. Its three engines generate enough downwash the sailors call it the "hurricane maker." This huge Marine bird can carry 55 troops or 15 tons of cargo at speeds of up to 173 miles an hour for 600 miles. It can refuel in midair, or get more gas from a ship while hovering overhead. It is armed with a trio of machine guns: one out each side, and one at the tail ramp.

For the inside story on America's military operations around the world, check out Mark Thompson's blog, Battleland: Where military intelligence is not a contradiction in terms.

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