Gazelle

The Gazelle helicopter (SA341 and SA342) was the workhorse of the British military for three decrades. Originally built by Sud-Aviation, which became AeroSpatial, it began as a proposal for a light-weight observation helicopter for the French army, and was destined to replace the Alouette 11.

In 1967, Britain joined in a production sharing agreement with the French, and the first Gazelle flight was made in April 1967. Westland made the first British military Gazelle in 1970, and since then the Gazelle has been linked with the British forces.

In 1971, the Gazelle established three world helicopter speed records. The fastest was 312 km (168 nm) per hour....