And a Pair of United States Marine Corps (USMC) Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion Helicopters Also Arrive into Rockhampton Airport

Perhaps the highlight during a great day and night of military helicopter and aircraft plane spotting at and around Rockhampton Airport as the build-up to joint Military Exercise Talisman Sabre 2019 (TS19) continued on Wednesday 26 June when a pair of United States Marine Corps (USMC) Sikorsky CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters were spotted touching down at Rockhampton Airport.

The Super Stallions were identified as 161532 / Code 24 and 161262 / YJ-02.  The two Super Stallions are reportedly of the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463 (HMH-463) "Pegasus".  The squadron is based at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii and falls under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 24 (MAG-24) and the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing (1st MAW).

It was interesting to note though that the only visible squadron markings were 'HMH-USA' - part of one of the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadrons.

At the time of writing, it appears that both Super Stallion helicopters are staying for at least the night at Rockhampton Airport.

Sincere thanks again to local plane spotter Jason M for again being at the right place at the right time and capturing and sending through these great photos!

All photos taken by Jason Miller  ©