I'd like to make sure this thread captures the technical excellence that is G-LYNX
Lynx – The World’s Fastest Helicopter 20 Years On
The 11th August marks the 20th anniversary of the Westland Lynx helicopter setting a new world helicopter speed record of 249.1 mph (400.87 kph). Although other attempts have been made, 20 years on Lynx retains the title as the world’s fastest helicopter.
The Lynx helicopter, registered G-LYNX, flew a 15km course across the Somerset Levels at 500 ft on a calm hazy evening back in 1986 with Westland Chief Test Pilot Trevor Eggington at the controls and Derek Clews, Flight Test Engineer alongside. The average speed achieved over two runs was 249.1 mph (400.87 kph), beating the record held by a modified Mil “Hind” helicopter by over 20 mph (32 kph).
The world record flight was made possible by the introduction of the advanced technology composite blades developed as part of the British Experimental Rotor Programme (BERP) project. The BERP programme was carried out in co-operation with the UK Ministry of Defence to produce an advanced technology rotor blade, which would exploit the advantages to be gained by aerodynamic tailoring through the use of modern composite materials and construction methods. The first BERP blades were flown on 9th August 1985 and such was the progress achieved G-LYNX was able to claim the World Speed Record just one year later. The BERP blades are now fitted to all Lynx helicopters in service and the same technology was used for the EH101 main rotor blades.
The three month programme to modify a standard Lynx to world speed record configuration was launched on 22nd May 1986 and included installing more powerful Rolls-Royce Gem 60 engines. These engines were cleared to operate at their maximum contingency rating, thereby boosting power by 45%. Engine power was further boosted by utilising a water-methanol injection system. To improve yaw control a new low set tail plane with vertical fins was fitted which also offload the tail rotor.
A drag reduction exercise was undertaken involving the fairing of the main rotor head, removal of external items such as steps, aerials and windscreen wipers, while joints were sealed and cooling ducts blanked where possible.
Dangermouse, nobody is trying to take away the Westland record for world's fastest pure helicopter.
Along with Concorde this has inspired a generation. But, technology inevitably marches on and the coaxial compound helicopter looks to be the way forwards. I would see X2 compound helicopter a spiritual successor, using the latest available techniques. One day X2 must also gracefully look on as it's spiritual successor goes from VTOL to even higher speeds. This is is just the way of things.
A conventional coaxial would have no chance at high speeds. The secret to X2TD is the advancing blade technology developed for XH59/S-69 helicopter (not sure if this was defined as compound).
Mart