Brian Wakeman up-scales to Fly Models’ 1/32 Wessex, and includes aftermarket extras for good measure
INTERMEDIATE BUILD WESTLAND WESSEX
Britain’s Wessex helicopter was a licence-produced version of Sikorsky’s S-58, and was the workhorse of the RAF and Royal Navy (RN) for four decades.
Manufactured by Westland Helicopters at its Yeovil plant, it entered service in 1961, continuing a licensing ’tradition’ between the two manufacturers. This relationship began with the Dragonfly (S-51) in 1950, followed by the Whirlwind (S-55/H-19) and ended with the Sea King/ Commando (S-61/H-3) antisubmarine, rescue and troop transport helicopter.
The type has been relatively well served by kit manufacturers, but many boxings focus on RN versions. When Fly Model announced three different packages of this magnificent machine in 1/32 scale, helicopter fans were bowled over. First to be released (and the subject of this build) was the RAF HC.2, followed quickly by an RN HU.5 and HAS.3.
Impressive contents
Fly’s fine rendition of the Wessex comprised eight styrene runners (including one clear), two photo-etched (PE) brass frets, a paper sheet (seat covers) and 59 crisply cast resin parts. In hindsight, it would have been idea…
