Westland Lynx AH Mk. I by Fujimi

1/72 scale
Kit No. 7A19
Cost: $10.00
Decals: One version
Comments: Nice exterior detail; rather heavy engraved panel lines; option for naval version with different nose, but no naval markings or ordnance

History

Westland’s Lynx AH Mk.I first flew on February 11, 1977. Its Anglo-French development dates back to a February 1967 agreeement between France and the United Kingdom for joint development of three helicopters: the Lynx, the Puma and the Gazelle. Westland was responsible for 70 percent, and the French firm Aerospatiale for 30 percent of the Lynx’ development. The Lynx comes in two basic versions: a general purpose utility/transport variant for Army use, and a more specialized naval version. British Army Air Corps squadrons in the former West Germany were the first to put the Lynx into action, equipped with TOW (Tube launched, Optically sighted, Wire-guided) anti-tank m

The Lynx can be modified for search-and-rescue operations with an electric hoist, flares, and a waterproof cabin floor. In the offensive role it can carry a variety of armament including a 20mm cannon, a 7.62mm mini-gun, rockets or missiles, including up to eight Hughes TOW anti-tank missiles.

Specifications

Powerplant: Two Rolls Royce BS.360-07-27Gem turboshafts of 950 shp
Maximum cruising speed: 175 mph (282 km/h)
Maximum forward rate of climb: 2,180 ft/minute (664 meters)
Maximum vertical rate of climb: 1,235 ft/minute (376 meters)
Weights: Empty equipped/troop transport – 6,144 lbs.; Empty equipped/anti-tank – 6,772 lbs.; Empty equipped/search-and-rescue – 6,532 lbs.; Normal take-off: 9,500 lbs.; Maximum take-off: 10,500 lbs.

The Kit

Fujimi’s example of the Lynx helicopter is molded in olive drab and consists of 71 injection molded parts, 12 of which are clear. The kit is a crisp mold with no flash anywhere, has detailed rotors and two very well done pilot figures. The cockpit consists of two seats, two control columns and decals for the instrument panels. Beyond the cockpit the interior is not particularly detailed, but the main door can be assembled open or closed. The exterior bears a mix of engraved and raised panel lines, some of the former being rather heavy. Illustrations are provided for the drilling of holes in the belly to accomodate the skids, and for the positioning on an antenna which must be attached to the boom at a particular angle. Armament consists of six air-to-ground anti-tank missiles in three tube launchers attached to pylons on either side of the fuselage.

Conclusion

Having seen this kit fully assembled in a hobby shop display case, I know it will build into a very nice Lynx helicopter. Great detail for its age – Highly recommended.

Reference

• The Encyclopedia of World Air Power, Crescent Books, New York, 1980.