Westland Wessex HU.5/5C

A British licence development of the Sikorsky S-58, the Westland Wessex was a general purpose duties all-metal helicopter produced by Westland Aircraft Ltd.

The Wessex HU.5, basically similar to the HC.2, represented the last version for the Royal Navy. It was powered by twin R-R Gnome turboshaft engines, which provided enough power and added safety for carrying troops into action.

A pre-production aircraft flew in May 1963 and a total of 100 machines were deliverered between 1963 and 1967. The HU.5 was also used in SAR, communications, fire support, air ambulance, paratrooping and ferrying roles. Following distinguished service the type was eventually withdrawn from RN service in March 1988.

Wessex HU.5C was a designation for a small batch of aircraft deployed to No.84 Squadron at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, serving there in the period 1984-94.