Westland Wessex

HAS1, HAS3 Anti-Submarine & HU5 Utility Helicopters


Wessex HAS1

Wessex HAS3


Developed from the Sikorsky S-58 (US H-34), the Wessex HAS1 was the first front line helicopter powered by a free power turbine. The first production HAS1 flew on 20 June 1958 and entered front line service in July 1961, serving in both anti-submarine and utility roles. Some HAS1 were converted to HAS3 standard with improved avionics (including a large dorsal radome for a search radar) but were soon replaced by the more capable Sea King. The last front line HAS3 squadron re-equipped in 1971. The aircraft was due to leave second line service in 1982 but was delayed for use in the Falklands campaign. The HAS1 continued to serve in second line duties, often search-and-rescue, until 1979.

A dedicated utility troop-transport version of the Wessex, the HU5, had two Rolls Royce Gnome 110 turboshafts (1,350 shp each) rather than the free power turbine of the anti-submarine versions. Capable of carrying 16 Royal Marine Commandos and their equipment, it first flew on 31 May 1963. The HU5 replaced the HAS1s being used in utility roles from 1964 onwards and remained in front line service until 1986. It continued in second line roles until recently.

A total of 129 HAS1, 3 HAS3 and 100 HU5 were newly built for the Royal Navy. 43 HAS1 were converted to HAS3 standard.

(Wessex HAS3)
Dimensions: Rotor diameter 17.07 m (56ft) ; Length 20.07 m (65ft 10in) ; Height 4.85 m (15ft 11in) ; Rotor Disc Area 228.85 sq.m (2,463.4 sq.ft)
Weights: Maximum Take-off 6168.9 kg (13,600 lb)
Powerplant: one Napier Gazelle 165 free power turbine - 1193 kW (1,600 shp) maximum power.
Performance: Maximum cruising speed 138 mph (222 kph, 120 kt)
Avionics: Louis Newmark autopilot ; Dipping sonar ; Search radar.
Armament: Detachable pylons for 4 SS11 or 2 AS12 AShMs, or 2 7.62 mm machine guns. Hardpoints for depth charges or lightweight torpedoes.