The MH-53E Sea Dragon has been in service with the United States Navy since June 1986 when the Navy acquired 40 of these helicopters. It is essentially a derived version of the CH-53E Super Stallion, boasting a larger and more capable fuel capacity.

Its primary mission is Anti-Mine Countermeasures (AMCM), involving vertical ship delivery and attack transport tasks that demand extraordinary resilience and sensitivity to support missions. Apart from fulfilling these critical roles, the MH-53E also engages in search and rescue operations (SAR), external freight transport, and land and sea operations.

The helicopter can carry out airlift operations, both internally and externally, making it a versatile asset for a range of military tasks. Notably, the MH-53E Sea Dragon has a 50 nautical mile range and can transport up to 55 troops or 16 tons of cargo.

In conclusion, the MH-53E Sea Dragon is an integral part of naval operations, serving as a powerful and adaptable aircraft for various missions. Its capabilities make it a vital asset for both the United States Navy and its Japanese counterparts, reaffirming its status as a significant contributor to military aviation.