I believe that the discussion is getting a little of track and far too emotional. Comparing the mishap rates for the 53 series to the V-22 is at best misleading. The CH-53A was conceived in June 1962. The first 53A flew in October 1964. There were a total of 522 twin Engine 53’s manufactured including 112 German machines. The CH-53E was conceived in October 1974 as an interim heavy lift machine to bridge the gap for Heavy lift until a new machine could be developed. The first CH-53E flew in December 1975. The E was an Engineering Change Plan to the twin engine D. Only 16 were to be built. Some time in the 1970s a decision was made to continue production of the E. A total of 194 three engine Es were produced, 152 CH-53s for the Marines and Navy, 31 MH-53Es for the US Navy and 11 S-80M-1s (MH-53E’s) for the JMSDF. That brings the total 53 production to 716 units over a period more than 45 years. Just listing mishaps is also misleading.
The Boyle mishap is a good example. It was determined that there was nothing wrong with the machine and that pilot error was most likely the cause. This case was litigated at the United States Supreme where the court decided in favor of United Technologies. As a result, the court determined that Government contractor could not be held accountable if the US Government participated in the design of the machine. It is known in the industry as the Boyle test. Smith vs. Morton-Thiokol and Dowd vs. Textron are two other cases that have come under this rule. I am sure that Bell/Boeing will use this in the future.