Westland Wessex

Westland Wessex
Image caption
Description
Role
Crew
First Flight
Entered Service
Manufacturer
Dimensions
Length	ft in	m
ft in	m
Height	ft in	m
Wing area	ft²	m²
Weights
Empty	lb	kg
Loaded	lb	kg
Maximum takeoff	lb	kg
Capacity
Powerplant
Engines
Power	hp	kW
Thrust	lb	kN
Performance
Maximum speed	mph	km/h
Combat range	miles	km
Ferry range	miles	km
Service ceiling	ft	m
Rate of climb	ft/min	m/min
Wing loading	lb/ft²	kg/m²
Thrust/Weight
Power/Mass	hp/lb	kW/kg
Avionics
Avionics
Armament
Guns
Bombs
Missiles
Rockets
Other

The Westland Wessex was a turbine-powered version of the Sikorsky S-58 Chocktaw, developed under license by Westland Aircraft, initially for the Royal Navy. The Wessex was built at Yeovil in Somerset.

The design was adapted in the early 1960s for the RAF to become a general-purpose helicopter capable of troop-carrying, air ambulance and ground attack roles. It was first used by the RAF in 1962, and did not finally retire until 2003, being the main transport helicopter until the introduction of the Puma. The bright yellow RAF machines used for air-sea or mountain rescue duties became especially famous and saved many lives.

Wessex helicopters were also used by the Queen's Flight of the RAF to transport VIPs including members of the British Royal Family, from 1969 to 1998. Those Royal helicopters were designated HCC4 and were essentially similar to the HC2 but with an upgraded interior and additional navigation equipment. A later version used by Royal Navy commandos was the HC5.

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