Originally Posted by
Fareastdriver
Back in 1971 when I was on 33 Sqn. when the Pumas started flying we were subjected to this non stop mockery from 72 Wessex Sqn. of how our Pumas would fall apart once the Army started jumping in and out. The first aircraft, XW204, arrived at the end of April and is still in service with the same squadron; nearly fifty years later.
Soldier proof. How long was the Wessex in front line service?
True, but then they did totally rebuild them with new engines and rotors, the Wessex simply plodded on as delivered. It would have been nice to see the Westminster developed, which was in a way a big Wessex with the engines and cockpit placement swopped. It might even have negated the need for the Sea King.