To improve the performance, and especially the load-carrying capability of the basic H-43A design, the H-43B was developed with a Lycoming T53-L-1A turbine engine. Experience had been obtained with this power unit when the HOK-1 had been modified on a USAF contract and the first prototype flew on Septemeber 27, 1956. The USAF originally ordered 116 of the H-34B version and deliveries began in June 1959. Further contracts brought the total of this variant built for the USAF to 203, including some for MAP use overseas. The H-43Bs were assigned to bases of all flying Commands throughout the continental U.S. for crash and fire rescue missions. In addition, some H-43Bs were modified and later production H-43Fs, had improved engines and were operated extensively in Southeast Asia for various combat rescue missions.

WR-ALC was responsible for the logistics support of the all H-43s in USAF service. The HH-43A on display was delivered to the USAF in February 1960 and assigned to the 3635th Flying Training Wing, Stead AFB, Nevada. It was later transferred various units in the US before retiring from the 44th Aerospace Rescue Squadron at Craig AFB, Alabama in March 1973. It was transferred to the Museum in 1988 for display.