We told you the Marines are conducting experiments with a futuristic landing craft prototype called the Ultra Heavy Lift Amphibious Connector. Now, watch it in action. [HTML1] In this demonstration video supplied by the company Navatek, half-size and quarter-size versions of the UHAC (which is big enough to carry 3 tanks at full size) conduct impressive maneuvers. The prototypes climb sea walls, launch directly into the water over berms, and maneuver through choppy seas at speeds of up to 10 knots. Officials with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab were in Hawaii earlier this month to conduct experiments with the UHAC…
Browsing: Equipment
The Vietnam-era CH-53D heavy lift helicopter made its final mission on Thursday with one last flight over Helmand province. Marines from Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362 from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar conducted the final flight. The squadron, known as the “Ugly Angels,” has used the D model since 1969. The E model, a faster and more powerful make, first entered service in the 1980’s and will replace the Vietnam-era aircraft. Lt. Col. Christopher Oliver, commanding officer of HMH-362 described the D model as “awesome” and said the final mission was bittersweet. “It was about as happy of a flight as…
[brightcove video=”1769121844001″ /] Last week, I traveled to Lothian, Md., with Senior Video Journalist Colin Kelly to visit the home of Cevon McLean, the owner of a rare 1965 Vietnam-era Bell Huey. McLean is selling his war-time collectible on Craigslist for $175,000. Fully stocked with gun mounts, ammo cans, and 2.75 rocket pods, the purchasing price also includes a trailer to tow the UH-1E away. McLean said he’s used Craigslist in the past to sell other pieces of equipment, but admits he doesn’t do it very often. “This is definitely the most unique item I’ve put on there,” McLean said. To…
On a convoy between locations in Kajaki, I was once again awestruck by Marine ingenuity. The guys from the 1st Battalion, 8th Marines Motor Transport Platoon had built a wag bag toilet into the back of their MRAP. The gunner, Corporal Brandon Szopinski explained that life on the roads of Afghanistan often meant long hours between umm… facilities, so doing as Marines do, they improvised. This particular toilet looked plush and comfy, complete with a foam padded seat for those bumpy rides. So, if the going gets tough, I now know where to find the best seat around. All that’s…
