Lynx AH1

The Westland Lynx AH1 is a British attack and utility helicopter that entered service in the mid‑1970s as the Army’s primary rotary‑wing platform. Developed by Westland Helicopters from the earlier Lynx Mk 1 series, the AH1 incorporated upgraded Rolls‑Royce Gem turbo‑shaft engines, a four‑blade fully articulated main rotor with composite blades, and a reinforced airframe designed for high‑speed, low‑level operations. Its first flight occurred in 1971 and the type achieved the world helicopter speed record of 400 km/h (249 mph) in 1986, a benchmark that showcased the effectiveness of advanced rotor dynamics and power‑to‑weight ratios. The Lynx AH1 could transport up to nine troops, sling‑load up to 2,200 kg, and be fitted with a range of weapons such as the 30 mm RARDEN cannon, AGM‑114 Hellfire, and BGM‑71 TOW missiles, making it versatile for reconnaissance, anti‑armor, and close‑support missions. The aircraft saw extensive combat in the Falklands War, Northern Ireland, and Iraq, where its agility and reliability proved decisive. Its legacy endures as a catalyst for modern high‑performance helicopters, influencing designs like the AgustaWestland AW159 Wildcat and setting standards for speed, maneuverability, and multi‑role capability in military aviation.

Westland Helicopters

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