WG13 Lynx flew on this day 1971
 

On this day in 1971, the prototype WG13 flew for the first time


Cheers

Despite some of the Lynx shortcomings (some literally fatal), to see the design and manufacture behind the titanium Main Rotor Head is quite amazing (video at 2:20). Being able to dispense with multiple hinges, bearings and brackets and do it all with titanium flexing was revolutionary, although you wonder why it never became more popular across the industry (cost?).

It did give a fairly unforgiving ride which wouldn't have gone down well with fare-paying pax but the handling qualities were spectacular.

They changed the design from a single piece head to a two piece one in the 90's but titanium isn't cheap and doesn't like being scratched.

The rotor head is one of the things scavenged from the disbanded Lynx force and re-used on the Wildcat.

I think they probably led the way for the industry into elastomeric bearings for modern helicopters once the 'hingeless' capability had been proven.

I wonder if the old Sports and Social club was `rocking` last night ...probably not...!!