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From the 34th aircraft, all CH-53s were fitted with hardpoints for the towing of mine countermeasures equipment. However the use of such equipment required a greater level of power than was generally available. Consequently, the US Navy re-engined 15 aircraft with the T64-GE-413 powerplant, and added rearview mirrors on tube mounts either side of the nose. Designated RH-53A, these served with HM-12, but were subsequently demodified back to CH-53A status. Some Marine CH-53Ds have been used in the mine-hunting role. Aiding this application was the adoption of the definitive RH-53D variant, which introduced T64-GE-415 engines of greater power and the option to mount a refueling probe and sponson tanks. The mine countermeasures equipment is towed behind the aircraft from a heavy trapeze attached to the rear ramp and rear fuselage. Optional equipment includes various floating sleds to handle contact, acoustic and magnetic mines. The SPU-1 Magnetic Orange Pipe system is used against shallow-water mines. Mines brought to the surface by the system are detonated by using a pair of 50 cal machine guns.