Investigation of Techniques for Towing a HH-3F Helicopter at Sea,

摘要

A U.S. Coast Guard HH-3F helicopter downed at sea overturned while being towed back to port. This incident indicated a need for adequate towing techniques. A project was undertaken for the U.S. Coast Guard to develop techniques for towing this type helicopter at sea. A model of the helicopter with a scale ratio of 6.67 was constructed and towed in the model basins. Towing was conducted in calm water and in waves simulating up to Sea State 5. The helicopter towing was unstable under most conditions but was stabilized by attaching a drogue parachute to the helicopter. The addition of the drogue parachute is the primary recommendation made for towing the helicopter at sea.