Re: LYNX Records
To my certain knowledge, the Lynx has never officially set a rearwards flight record, though being short-coupled with relatively low directional stability, it may well be capable of such a feat. In service, it's rearwards flight envelope is limited to 40 kn for obvious stress reasons, though there is plenty of rearwards cyclic control and pedal remaining to go faster, particularly at lighter AUM.
Fast rearwards flight really serves no purpose at all (ather than the ability to hover downwind in a gale), since the pilot cannot see where he is going! The windscreen was fitted for this purpose when flying forwards! I cannot ever envisage helicopter manufacturers joining in a race to see who can fly fastest backwards .... they have enough to do to ensure that the rest of the flight envelope is safe and competititive.