BUNDLEA100 Westland Sea King 'Four of a Kind' Bundle

Westland Sea King HAS.1/HAS.5/HU.5

Product code: A11006

King of land, sea and sky, we present the newly crafted 1:48 scale Westland Sea King HAS.1/HAS.5/HU.5, the most comprehensive Sea King kit ever released, consisting of 348 parts. This model captures the transformation of a single aircraft from its first flight to its present-day appearance, making it truly unique. The newly designed model includes a fully riveted outer surface and overlapping panels, with an interior that features elevated cockpit elements and instrument panels, along with three unique cabin layouts specific to each scheme.

Key Features

• Newly crafted 1:48 scale model with 348 parts, the most comprehensive Sea King kit ever released
• Fully riveted outer surface and overlapping panels for outstanding exterior detail
• Detailed interior with elevated cockpit elements and instrument panels
• Three cabin layouts specific to each of the four included schemes
• Illustrates the transformation of a single aircraft from first flight to present-day appearance
• Suitable for modellers aged 8 and above with skill level 4
• Four paint schemes included to represent HAS.1, HAS.5, and HU.5 variants

History

Leading the way in helicopter innovation in the post-war period, the US Sikorsky Company was contracted in 1957 to create an all-weather amphibious helicopter for the US Navy. Initially designed for anti-submarine warfare to protect the fleet, it adapted to various roles, becoming one of the 20th Century's iconic aircraft. Named SH-3 Sea King, it was equipped with an amphibious hull for water and ship deck landings. With twin turboshaft engines, it could transport personnel, equipment, or supplies, providing the Navy with a groundbreaking aircraft. Entering service in 1961, the Sea King was the most advanced of its kind, offering a versatile aviation platform.

In the UK, a licensing agreement between Westland Helicopters and Sikorsky was expanded to include the SH-3 Sea King shortly after the prototype's initial flight, recognising its potential. Westland-produced Sea Kings retained the classic lines of the US design but included numerous internal changes for British military needs. The Royal Navy chose the Westland Sea King to replace the Westland Wessex in anti-submarine warfare, placing an order for 60 aircraft in 1966. The first Westland-manufactured Sea King HAS.1 took flight from Yeovil on 7 May 1969, with deliveries to No.700 Naval Air Squadron at RNAS Yeovilton later that year.

The Sea King quickly demonstrated its operational capability and adaptability, enjoying a lengthy career with both the Fleet Air Arm and Royal Air Force. Excelling in every assigned role, it became especially cherished as a Search & Rescue helicopter, making it one of the most successful British military aircraft of the post-war era.

The Westland Sea King is a product of Leonardo UK Ltd, and all rights, including its name, are reserved. The models were produced with permission and assistance from Leonardo MW Ltd.

Individual price: £59.99

Westland Sea King HC.4

Product code: A11008

The newest version of Airfix's 1:48 scale Westland Sea King 2023 tooling brings notable improvements absent from the initial release. These enhancements include folding rotor blades and tail, an undercarriage without sponsons specific to the HC.4 variant, and updated interior components featuring a lengthened cabin and additional seating. The model provides options for open or closed doors, a GPMG machine gun mount, refined cockpit details, and additional antenna and countermeasures parts tailored for the HC.4's operational role, with 289 pieces to assemble a model with a 397mm wingspan.

Key Features

• Folding rotor blades and tail for realistic storage configuration
• Undercarriage without sponsons specific to HC.4 variant
• Updated interior components with lengthened cabin and extra seats
• Open or closed door options to personalise your model
• Includes GPMG machine gun mount
• Enhanced cockpit detail parts for greater authenticity
• Additional antenna and countermeasures parts for the HC.4's operational role
• 289 pieces to construct this striking 1:48 scale model

History

The HC.4 version of the Westland Sea King was a specialised variant used by the Royal Navy as a Commando troop transport and resupply helicopter, replacing the Wessex HU.5 helicopters. It was developed alongside similar models for the Egyptian and Qatari Air Forces. A total of 42 helicopters were constructed in this configuration, designed to be close to action areas.

Throughout its 36-year service, the Junglie, as it was affectionately called, was deployed to various global conflict zones, demonstrating its capabilities from the Falklands War to the UK's operations in Afghanistan.

ZA298, known as 'King of the Junglies', was the longest-serving Sea King HC.4, participating in conflicts in the Falklands, Bosnia, Iraq, and most recently, Afghanistan over a span of more than 30 years.

The Westland Sea King is a product of Leonardo UK Ltd, and all associated rights, including its name, are reserved. The models have been created with the permission and support of Leonardo MW Ltd.

Individual price: £59.99

Westland Sea King HC.4

Product code: A04056A

This detailed 1:72 scale replica of the Westland Sea King HC.4 'Commando' includes 133 plastic components, providing an engaging project for intermediate modellers. Tailored for amphibious missions and tactical troop deployment, this variant omits the side floats of earlier Sea King models, making it perfect for land operations while maintaining folding rotors and tail for naval use.

Key Features

• 1:72 scale model with 133 plastic parts
• Skill level 2 - suitable for modellers aged 8 and above
• Two authentic paint schemes included
• Folding rotors and tail mechanism can be modelled
• Detailed cockpit and troop compartment interior
• Option to display radar-warning and infrared jamming devices
• Decals for Falklands, Gulf and Afghanistan operational service

History

The 'Commando' variant of the Sea King was specifically designed for amphibious warfare and tactical troop deployment. Initially suggested as a tactical transport for the Egyptian Air Force, it did not require the amphibious features of previous Sea Kings, leading to the removal of side floats. Featuring folding rotors and tail, the Commando was introduced into the Royal Navy as the Sea King HC.4. It was later equipped with radar-warning and infrared jamming systems and could release M130/M147 flares as countermeasures. In addition to transporting troops, it could carry underslung loads up to 2.5 tonnes.

With an extended range and capacity to carry 28 troops, it was perfect for amphibious transport duties. The HC.4 was actively used in conflicts in the Falklands, Balkans, Gulf, Lebanon, and Afghanistan. It frequently undertook missions to evacuate injured personnel and refugees, as well as supporting and preparing for ground operations. It was scheduled for retirement from UK Forces service in March 2016.

The Westland Sea King is a product of Leonardo UK Ltd and all rights in it, including its name, are hereby reserved. The models have been produced with the permission and assistance of Leonardo MW Ltd.

Individual price: £24.99

Gift Set - Westland Sea King HAR.3

Product code: A55307B

This remarkable 1:72 scale gift set showcases the Westland Sea King HAR.3, a specialised Search and Rescue (SAR) version that began service in 1978, succeeding the Westland Whirlwind HAR.10. Equipped with paints, glues, brushes, and decals, this 135-piece set provides all essentials to assemble this capable SAR helicopter. The Sea King HAR.3 commenced operations with the RAF in 1982 and was subsequently produced by Westland for the Royal Norwegian Air Force, the Belgian Air Force, and the German Navy. In 1992, the RAF ordered six enhanced HAR.3As, featuring a digital navigation system and advanced avionics. The HAR.3 consistently delivered dependable SAR coverage throughout the UK and the Falkland Islands. The Mk3 Sea King concluded its RAF service in 2016, while the Mk7 was anticipated to remain with the Royal Navy until 2018.

Key Features

• Paints
• Glues
• Brushes
• Decals
• 135-piece kit
• 1:72 scale with 263mm wingspan
• Skill level 3, suitable for ages 8+

History

The introduction of the Sea King HAR.3 marked a notable enhancement in RAF Search and Rescue operations when it was deployed in 1978. Created to replace the outdated Westland Whirlwind HAR.10, this adapted version of the Westland Sea King quickly demonstrated its effectiveness in challenging SAR missions. The typical SAR crew consists of two pilots, a radar and winch operator, and a winchman/paramedic, facilitating well-coordinated rescue efforts in difficult conditions.

After its debut in RAF service in 1982, the Sea King HAR.3's reputation for dependability and performance led to international orders, with Westland producing models for the Royal Norwegian Air Force, Belgian Air Force, and German Navy. The 1992 enhancement programme introduced six HAR.3As with digital navigation systems and upgraded avionics, keeping the model at the cutting edge of SAR technology. Throughout its operational life, the HAR.3 offered unwavering SAR coverage across the UK and as far as the Falkland Islands, saving numerous lives during its esteemed service before retiring from RAF duty in 2016.

Individual price: £19.99