*British, 1980-87, Royal Navy Falklands Westlands Gazelle Helicopter Co-Pilots Seat*
This is a fascinating souvenir of our naval aerial defence history. This Falklands War era Co-Pilots chair is in good used condition and still retains its base sheepskin cushion. It has been converted into an office swivel chair. On the back the chair is named “Gazelle Crew Seat” and dated April 1980. Imagine what this chair may have witnessed?
Marked on the Back:
Attention Before Folding the Co-Pilots Seat (To Install Stretcher):
1) Place sear in max. forward position. 2) Secure seat harness. 3) Remove co-pilots cyclic stick and pedals
Air-Log Ltd,
Aldershot, Hants. 500
Gazelle Crew Seat No: AI- (420 crossed out)
Issue: 2, Serial No: AIR/L/087
MK: Type:
Nato No:
Stores ref: 26LE (6103128 number crossed out) 6646774
Date Manufactured: 4/80
Date Inspected: 4/80
Mods: CS1. C59
RP 4/87
Approximate measurements:
Back (excluding base): 74cm
Back to floor (adjustable): 113.5cm
Seat width: 45.5cm
Seat depth: 48cm
Background:
The Aérospatiale Gazelle is a five-seat, light helicopter used for transport, scouting, and light attack roles. It was the first helicopter to use a fenestron tail instead of a conventional rotor and was jointly produced by Aérospatiale in France and Westland Aircraft in the UK, with additional licensed production in Yugoslavia and Egypt.
Introduced in 1973, the Gazelle has been widely exported and used in various conflicts, including the 1982 Lebanon War, the Rwandan Civil War, and the 1991 Gulf War. While it has been supplemented by the Eurocopter Tiger as an attack helicopter in French service, it continues to serve primarily as a scout helicopter. Between 1980 and 1987, the Royal Navy’s Gazelle helicopters served in several key roles, with notable deployments during the Falklands War and in the Persian Gulf.
Falklands War (1982)
During the Falklands War, Gazelle helicopters were heavily utilized for reconnaissance, casualty evacuation, communications, and liaison tasks. Operating from ships like HMS Fearless and HMS Intrepid, they played a crucial role in supporting British ground forces and maintaining communications. Several Gazelles were lost to enemy action, highlighting their front-line involvement and the risks faced during the conflict.
Persian Gulf (Armilla Patrol)
In the Persian Gulf, Gazelle helicopters supported the Royal Navy’s Armilla Patrol, which was established to protect British shipping during the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988). They provided aerial surveillance, reconnaissance, and rapid-response capabilities in a region of heightened tension, helping safeguard maritime operations and maintain a British presence in the area.
Overall, the Gazelle helicopters were vital for the Royal Navy’s operations in both the Falklands and the Persian Gulf, providing versatile support in challenging environments.
*Condition*
Good used condition. Marks and general wear commensurate with age and service. There are no seatbelts or back sheepskin. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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