• Brand new 1/72 scale diecast model of Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopter #25 "162523, HMH-461 Ironhorse, HMM-365 (Rein), 4th MEU (SOC), Kandahar, Afghanistan, Operation Enduring Freedom" (2008) United States Marine Corps die cast model by Panzerkampf.
• Brand new box.
• Detailed exterior.
• True-to-scale detail.
• Comes with a display stand.
• This model does not have any openings.
• Manufacturer's original unopened packaging.
• Made of diecast metal with some plastic parts.
• Dimensions approximately L-16.5, Wingspan-13.25 inches.
• Diecast metal and plastic construction for durability and a heavy, realistic feel.
• It is a highly detailed and accurate model, perfect for collectors and enthusiasts of military history.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels, and surface details for an authentic representation of the real-life airplane.

HISTORY ASPECTS:
The Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion was developed for the U.S. Marine Corps as a heavy-lift helicopter capable of transporting troops, vehicles, ammunition, artillery, and other oversized loads. Entering service in the early 1980s, the three-engine CH-53E became the Marine Corps’ principal heavy-lift platform, distinguished by its enormous size, seven-bladed main rotor, and exceptional lifting capability. Its ability to move large loads directly between ships, forward bases, and austere landing zones made it indispensable to Marine expeditionary operations.
BuNo 162523 was a CH-53E operated by Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 (HMH-461) “Ironhorse” and is documented with the squadron as aircraft CJ-15. During the 2008 Afghanistan deployment, it was associated with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 365 (Reinforced) [HMM-365 (REIN)] as part of the aviation combat element of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The 24th MEU was redirected from its original maritime deployment to Afghanistan, where its aviation forces operated from Kandahar Airfield and forward locations including Camps Bastion and Dwyer.
During Operation Enduring Freedom in 2008, HMM-365 (REIN) conducted an exceptionally demanding range of missions in southern Afghanistan. Its CH-53Es supported troop insertion, extraction, resupply, casualty evacuation, and movement of personnel and equipment across the Helmand Province battlespace. The unit participated in Operation AZADA WOZA, including a major nighttime insertion of Marine infantry into the Garmsir District, a Taliban stronghold. The aviation combat element ultimately accumulated more than 3,000 combat sorties during the deployment, supporting Marines and other International Security Assistance Force units in some of Afghanistan’s most challenging terrain.
This 1:72 scale model captures the imposing appearance and combat-support role of one of the Marine Corps’ most powerful helicopters, making it an excellent addition for collectors interested in U.S. Marine Corps aviation and the history of Operation Enduring Freedom.