Hawker Siddeley
Hawker Siddeley HS 780 Andover
The Hawker Siddeley HS 780 Andover is a twin‑engine, high‑wing transport aircraft that entered service with the Royal Air Force in 1967. Developed from the earlier Hawker Siddeley HS 748, the Andover featured a substantially enlarged fuselage, a rear loading ramp and a reinforced undercarriage, allowing it to operate from unprepared airstrips and to carry bulky cargo, troops, or paratroopers. Powered by two Rolls‑Royce Dart turboprop engines delivering 2,400 shaft‑horsepower each, the aircraft could cruise at 285 kt and achieve a range of more than 2,000 nm, while its distinctive swing‑door rear hatch became a hallmark of flexibility.
During its 30‑year RAF career the Andover performed tactical air‑lift, medical evacuation, and electronic‑signals‑intelligence missions, and was later exported to nations such as New Zealand, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Its robust design and short‑field capability proved vital in remote or combat‑zone operations, influencing later military transport concepts. Though production ceased in 1975 after 188 units, the HS 780 remains a respected example of British aeronautical engineering, bridging the gap between piston‑driven transports and newer jet‑powered tactical airlifters. Today a handful of airframes survive in museums and as civilian cargo operators, preserving its legacy for future generations.
During its 30‑year RAF career the Andover performed tactical air‑lift, medical evacuation, and electronic‑signals‑intelligence missions, and was later exported to nations such as New Zealand, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Its robust design and short‑field capability proved vital in remote or combat‑zone operations, influencing later military transport concepts. Though production ceased in 1975 after 188 units, the HS 780 remains a respected example of British aeronautical engineering, bridging the gap between piston‑driven transports and newer jet‑powered tactical airlifters. Today a handful of airframes survive in museums and as civilian cargo operators, preserving its legacy for future generations.
Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 37
- First Flight
- 1965
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer
- Hawker Siddeley
- Developer
- Hawker Siddeley
- Operator
-
748 Air Services Royal Air Force
- Wikidata ID
- Q3128763