The Sikorsky R-5 (other designations: Sikorsky H-5, S-48 or S-51) was an American multipurpose helicopter from World War II and the post-war period. The flight of the prototype took place in 1943, and the machine was put into the line in 1945. In total, it is estimated that over 300 helicopters of this type were built. The drive was provided by a single Pratt and Whitney Wasp Junior engine with 450 HP. The hull length of this machine was 17.4 meters, and the main rotor diameter was 14.63 meters. The maximum take-off weight oscillated around 2,200 kilograms, and the maximum speed did not exceed 175 km / h.
The Sikorsky R-5 was developed on the basis of the manufacturer's previous machine - the R-4 model. In relation to it, it was characterized primarily by the ability to carry loads of greater weight, but also by a higher speed or maximum and operational ceiling. It also used an engine with more than twice the power as a drive unit! Several versions of the Sikorsky R-5 helicopter were developed in the course of serial production, including: R-5A (medical evacuation version), R-5D (version with improved chassis) or H-5G (version with a four-person cabin and rescue equipment). The Sikorsky R-5 machines were used on a relatively large scale during the Korean War (1950-1953). It is worth adding that the machine was licensed in Great Britain under the name Westland-Sikorsky WS-51 Dragonfly.
