 | Fleet Air Arm |
| Fleet Air Arm |
Twenty-seven Wessex Mk 31A helicopters were introduced in 1962-63. The aircraft were upgraded to Mk 31B in 1969 with the addition of station-keeping radar and improved sonar. They were enployed as anti-submarine aircraft from ashore and from HMAS Melbourne until taking on a general utility role in the late 1970s.
Manufacturer: Westland Helicopters Ltd
Type: anti-submarine and search/rescue helicopter
Delivered: 27 helicopters, 1962-63
Crew: four
Engine: one 1,575 shp Napier Gazelle 161 free turbine engine
Speed: 108 knots
Range: 262 nautical miles
Withdrawn: 1989
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