AIRFIX (26)

An aircraft which possibly underlines the capabilities of the modern helicopter more effectively than any other type, the mighty Boeing CH-47 Chinook has already been in military service for over sixty years and shows no sign of disappearing from world skies any time soon. The distinctive tandem twin-rotor configuration of this heavy-lift helicopter cleverly counteracts the effects of engine torque by having each of its huge rotor blade stacks rotate in opposite directions, thus negating the need for the tail rotors traditionally associated with helicopters. The impressive Chinook made its first flight in 1961 and since then, it has become one of the most effective aircraft designs of the post-war era, capable of operating in almost any environment, no matter how inhospitable the terrain. Clearly, this has made the Chinook invaluable when performing many roles, ably tackling a multitude of military and civilian applications. As the world's largest operator of the Chinook outside the US, the Royal Air Force ordered 33 of these heavy-lift behemoths in 1978, with No.18 Squadron taking the honour of becoming Britain's first operational Chinook unit in August 1981. These first helicopters were designated HC.1 (Helicopter Cargo Mk.1) and had hardly settled into service when events on the other side of the world required their first overseas deployment. Following the Argentinean invasion of the Falkland Islands in April 1982, five of the RAF's Chinooks were wrapped in Driclad PVC protective covers and loaded on the deck of the requisitioned container ship Atlantic Conveyor. Tragically, all but one of these helicopters was lost following an Exocet missile strike on the vessel, with that surviving Chinook earning legendary status within the RAF. Having already been in Royal Air Force service for over 42 years, the latest variants of the mighty Chinook seem certain to be in service for many years to come. Specification Item Scale: 1:72 Parts Included: 171 Skill Level: 3 Scheme Options: 2

Well-suited for amphibious warfare and the tactical insertion of ground troops, the 'Commando' was an important variant of the Sea King. It was initially proposed as a tactical transport for the Egyptian Air Force, for which the amphibious capability of earlier Sea Kings was not required, and so the side floats were deleted. With folding rotors and tail, the Commando entered service with the Royal Navy as the Sea King HC.4. It was eventually provided with radar-warning and infrared jamming devices, and could also deploy M130/M147 flares as counter-measures. Besides troops, it could also carry underslung loads of up to 2.5 tonnes. Increased range and a 28-troop capacity made it ideal as an amphibious transport aircraft, and the HC.4 saw operational service in the Falklands, Balkans, Gulf, Lebanon and Afghanistan conflicts. It was often deployed to evacuate wounded personnel and refugees, as well as preparing for and supporting ground advances. It was due to be retired from UK Forces service in March 2016. Specification Item Scale: 1:72 Parts Included: 133 Skill Level: 2 Scheme Options: 2