Aviation 1/72 Westland Gazelle HCC4 XW855 Helicopter Model AV72-24001
The A rospatiale Gazelle originated in a French Army requirement for a lightweight utility helicopter. The design quickly attracted British interest, leading to a development and production share out agreement with British company Westland Helicopters. The deal, signed in February 1967, allowed the production in Britain of 292 Gazelles and 48 A�rospatiale Pumas ordered by the British armed forces, in return A�rospatiale were given a work share in the manufacturing programme for the 40 Westland Lynx naval helicopters for the French Navy. This was the first helicopter to carry a Fenestron or fantail, which allows considerable noise reduction. Also, the rotor blades were made of composite materials, a feature now widely used in modern helicopters.