The H-13 Sioux began as a civilian helicopter, Bell’s Model 47, which the U.S. Army requested be militarized for service use. The Army received its first H-13 in 1946, making it the first helicopter to enter large-scale military service. Production continued until 1974, and the type became one of the most widely built light helicopters in the world. The H-13 first saw combat in Korea and later in Vietnam, performing utility, reconnaissance, wire-laying, and training duties.
Aircraft Specifications
Physical Description
Small helicopter with a distinctive bubble-shaped Plexiglas canopy, open-frame tail boom, two-bladed main and tail rotors, and skid landing gear.
Crew: 2
Length: 24 ft
Main rotor diameter: 35 ft 1.5 in
Height: 9 ft 1 in
Weight (empty / max takeoff): 1,380 lbs / 2,500 lbs
Powerplant: One Franklin O-335 piston engine, 220 horsepower
Maximum speed: 92 mph
Range: 214 miles
Service ceiling: 13,000 ft
Weapons
None. The H-13G was unarmed.
Key Accomplishments
Became the first helicopter to enter large-scale military service and the first to see combat, during the Korean War.
Earned lasting recognition for its role evacuating wounded soldiers from the front lines to Mobile Army Surgical Hospital (M*A*S*H) units in Korea — a role later popularized by the television series M*A*S*H.
This aircraft (Serial #1090) is believed to have served with Army units during the Korean War before being used as a maintenance training airframe at a trade school.
Build Date
Unknown; type entered service in 1946
Manufacturer
Bell Helicopter
Dates of Service
Unknown (believed Korean War-era through National Guard service)
Country of Origin
United States
Inventory Number
Serial #1090
Credit
Owned by the Museum.
Display Status
Little is documented about this aircraft’s early military service, though it is believed to have served with Army units during the Korean War and later with the National Guard. After retirement, it is believed to have been used as a maintenance training device at a trade school. The Museum acquired the aircraft in 2003, and restoration was completed with the assistance of Carson Helicopters of Perkasie, Pennsylvania.
Status: On display.
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