ICM 53059 1/35 Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane Helicopter Model Kit with Universal Pod

The ICM reference 53059 recreates in 1/35 scale the Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane with Universal Pod, an American civil crane helicopter paired with a removable transport container. This plastic model kit to assemble stands out for its impressive size: the finished model measures 775 mm long and 225 mm wide. With 619 parts, it makes for a particularly engaging project for helicopter enthusiasts, fans of specialized civilian equipment, and modelers who love technical dioramas.

The Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane is a civil version derived from the CH-54, a heavy-lift helicopter used by the U.S. Army. Its design follows a simple and highly effective principle: a clear structure beneath the fuselage to carry substantial loads. In the civilian world, this type of aircraft is used for construction work, installation operations, transporting bulky cargo, and certain rescue missions.

The Universal Pod included in this kit highlights one of the Skycrane’s most distinctive uses. Originally developed for military CH-54 helicopters to expand their transport capabilities, these containers featured windows, doors, and a rear ramp. They could carry various equipment, including artillery pieces or light off-road vehicles. Examples from this military fleet were later used with civil S-64E helicopters and repainted in the typical orange livery of these helicopters.

This ICM kit therefore combines the S-64E helicopter and its universal container in a single box. The pod can be built with the doors and rear ramp open, a configuration well-suited for depicting loading, operations, or a ground scene in a diorama. The decals provided offer marking options for both the helicopter and the container.

With its 1/35 scale, this Sikorsky Skycrane naturally fits alongside military vehicles, construction machinery, figures, or scenery elements in the same format. Its unusual architecture—featuring the forward cockpit, central boom, and lifting equipment—also makes it an excellent choice for a standalone display. The model’s volume means you’ll want to plan for adequate space for assembly, painting, and exhibition.

This model kit is aimed at hobbyists who want to build a detailed replica of a heavy civil lift helicopter, complemented by a transport accessory rarely represented at this scale. It lets you recreate everything from a cargo handling scene to a rescue or specialized transport mission.

Technical features

• Brand: ICM
• Reference: 53059
• Subject: Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane with Universal Pod
• Type: plastic helicopter model kit to assemble
• Scale: 1/35
• Period: after 1950
• Number of parts: 619
• Dimensions of the assembled model: 775 x 225 mm
• Universal Pod container included
• Pod doors and rear ramp configurable in open position
• Decals for the helicopter and the container
• Box dimensions: 410 x 260 x 55 mm