A substantial and highly detailed 1:72 scale diecast representation of the Sikorsky VH-3D Sea King used for presidential transport by the United States Marine Corps. Released as part of the Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series, AA33403 depicts a Marine One helicopter operated by Marine Helicopter Squadron One, better known as HMX-1 “Nighthawks”, from Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Virginia.
HMX-1 is responsible for the helicopter transportation of the President of the United States, senior government officials and other authorised passengers. Although the call sign “Marine One” is only used when the President is aboard, it has become closely associated with the distinctive green and white helicopters operated by the squadron.
The VH-3D was introduced as an extensively modified executive transport development of the Sikorsky Sea King. Its interior was configured for secure VIP transport, while its communications, navigation and defensive systems were adapted to meet the specialised requirements of presidential operations.
This model recreates the aircraft's recognisable dark green and white finish, with “United States of America” lettering applied prominently along the fuselage. Additional external details include the extensive cockpit glazing, prominent radar and communications equipment, wheeled undercarriage and the large sliding side door associated with the Sea King's spacious passenger cabin.
Originally developed to meet a United States Navy requirement for an all-weather anti-submarine helicopter, the Sikorsky Sea King first flew in 1959. Its twin-engine design, boat-shaped hull and large cabin allowed the aircraft to undertake anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, transport and airborne early warning missions. The type was subsequently adapted for numerous specialist roles and served with military and government operators around the world.
This impressive Corgi release is particularly appealing to collectors of presidential aviation, United States Marine Corps aircraft and large-scale helicopter models. It features heavyweight diecast construction, a detailed cockpit and passenger cabin, a sliding cargo door and interchangeable rotor configurations. Two complete sets of rotor blades are supplied, with one designed to represent the natural droop of stationary blades and another curved upwards for an in-flight display.
Fact Sheet
Brand: Corgi
Series: Aviation Archive Collector Series
Model code: AA33403
Aircraft: Sikorsky VH-3D Sea King
Unit: United States Marine Corps HMX-1 “Nighthawks”
Call Sign / Association: Marine One
Role: Presidential and executive transport helicopter
Theatre / Base: Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Virginia
Operator / Country: United States Marine Corps / United States
Scale: 1:72
Material: Heavyweight diecast metal with quality sub-components
Special Features: Authentic Marine One green and white finish, United States of America fuselage lettering, detailed cockpit and passenger compartment, extensive clear glazing, sliding side cargo door, radar and communications equipment, wheeled undercarriage, two interchangeable rotor blade sets and original presentation display stand
Model Dimensions
Length: 12.25" or 31.1 cm
Width (Rotor Span): 10.25" or 26 cm