CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter in action: joint operation successfully lifts Stryker vehicle hulls

The Stryker is a highly mobile wheeled-armoured vehicle designed for versatility, firepower, and battlefield survivability. These hulls were acquired by the Pennsylvania Army National Guard (PAANG) Training Center through the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office to enhance training capabilities for Army and Marine artillery units.

However, moving the heavy vehicle hulls posed a logistical challenge, as the Army’s CH-47 Chinook helicopters were unable to lift them. This led to a request for assistance from HMH 772, based at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, which operates the CH-53E Super Stallion—the only U.S. military helicopter capable of carrying such loads.

PAANG personnel played a key role in preparing the site for the operation. “We were responsible for weighing the hulls, clearing the emplacement area of unexploded ordnance, and procuring the sling sets for the lift,” explained U.S. Army Capt. Michael Shea, PAANG range management authority. He emphasised that joint operations like this improve efficiency by utilising the strengths of different military branches.

The heavy-lift mission served a dual purpose: increasing interoperability among military services while upgrading Fort Indiantown Gap’s training range. The Stryker hulls will be used as targets for artillery training, with plans to integrate unmanned aerial systems to observe and track impacts in future exercises.

Safety and precision were central to the operation. A site survey was conducted in advance to ensure a clear landing zone and compliance with safety protocols. Of the 15 vehicle hulls requiring transport, only eight were eligible due to weight restrictions.

“This wasn’t just about moving equipment,” said Shea. “It was about ensuring the safety and efficiency of everyone involved while building a more robust training environment.”

The 621st CRG played a crucial role in supporting the mission, integrating the operation within its broader logistics and training framework. Additionally, a Marine sling-load team from New River, North Carolina, assisted in the process, while the local Army National Guard team took the lead in securing the loads to the aircraft.

Despite not being formally trained as a helicopter support team, the Army National Guard team’s experience with sling-load operations and strong working relationship with HMH 772 contributed to the mission’s success. HMH 772 regularly conducts similar external lift operations with the 621st CRG, enhancing proficiency in handling real-world equipment.

“Typically, we lift training loads to increase proficiency; however, we are always looking to lift real-world equipment as well,” said Maj. Michaela Amore, an HMH 772 helicopter pilot. She also confirmed that plans are underway for future lifts, including a High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle transport operation in the coming months.

The success of this mission highlights the Marine Corps Reserve’s role in supporting active-duty operations and strengthening interoperability across the U.S. military. HMH 772 frequently participates in joint exercises, such as Exercise Jaded Thunder, to refine cooperative training efforts.

Reflecting on the mission, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Von Denes, 621st CRG self-assessment program manager, emphasised the significance of cross-branch partnerships. “Thanks to our ongoing collaboration with HMH 772, we’re able to support their operations effectively. This mission highlights the importance of maintaining strong relationships across branches.”

Beyond this specific operation, U.S. Army Support Activity Fort Dix has been instrumental in the broader development of Fort Indiantown Gap’s training range. Ongoing infrastructure enhancements and strategic planning aim to create a state-of-the-art training environment for U.S. and allied forces.

“This was a true team effort, from weighing and prepping the vehicles to coordinating risk assessments across branches,” Shea concluded. “The outcome is a more capable training range and improved readiness for all involved.”