Westland Wessex HU5

Based on the Sikorsky H-34, the Westland Wessex was a licence-built version whereby the piston-engine of the H-34 had been replaced by a turboshaft engine. First the Napier Gazelle and then later a pair of de Havilland Gnome turboshafts. The Wessex entered service in 1961 in the anti-submarine role but was soon found to be a very capable search and rescue helicopter, only being finally retired from duty at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus in 2003. The Wessex saw combat service with both the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy, particularly during the Falkland Islands conflict. Including the United Kingdom, seven nations eventually operated the Westland Wessex.

Historic Helicopters were set up near Chard in Somerset in 2013 with a mission goal to preserve, restore and operate a fleet of vintage military helicopters. The fleet has grown to a total of twelve helicopters which were all built by Westland and during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fleet were offered to the Government for assistance flights. Wessex HU.5 XT761 served with distinction as a SAR helicopter between 1966 and 1983 before being placed into storage. Restored in its original Grey and Red colour scheme, the Wessex was returned to flight in 2019.

Joining our static line-up as part of our Eyes in the Skies theme, Historic Helicopters will be providing an XT761 for this year’s Air Tattoo during July.

If you would like more information on this fascinating collection of helicopters, please visit their website here: www.historichelicopters.com

Photo Credits: Kev Wills