Just when it seemed the Rotodyne concept was doomed to failure, the USAF expressed interest in having a medium lift helicopter to be available for supporting the DEW line. Noise issues were of no concern, particularly in light of the mission, and the tremendous capabilities that the Rotodyne offered.
So it was that Sikorsky entered into a joint venture arrangement with Westland to produce the Falcon under license. The aircraft had a number of modifications to the original design, which included more powerful engines, airframe strengthening, advanced avionics, and other mission requirements. The aircraft was designated CH-140, and named the Falcon, although crews nicknamed it " Ol' Thunder Britches". Sikorsky tried to market the aircraft to civil operators in the US, but without success.
This particular machine is a CH-140A, and was assigned to the 611th Air Support Group, supporting stations of the Olitok Long Range Radar Range in Alaska. In all, 201 aircraft were built, which included 13 service test machines. The Falcon enjoyed a long career, with the last aircraft retired in 1985. The type had an enviable service record, with no fatalities recorded, and only three forced landings, all weather related. A restored airframe is currently on display at the SAC museum in Bellevue, Nebraska.
This is of course the old Airfix Rotodyne, and it seemed to me that it needed a more noble ending than the one it did receive. Not perfect by any means, but fun. Haven't posted in ages, so please forgive me.
Best regards,
Kem
