On 15 April 1965, the first prototype Puma made its maiden flight; the first production helicopter flew during September 1968.

This helicopter first flew on 20th July 1968 as an SA330A (Prototype originally called ‘Alouette IV’) later being converted to an SA330E, before being delivered to Westlands at Yeovil on 10th October 1968 as a pattern airframe for the RAF Puma HC1.

Acquired by RAE in 1974, it was extensively instrumented and used for experimentation into flight dynamics and rotor research between 1981 and 1988. It had been fitted with a digital measurement system, which was installed for a research programme into simulation modelling verification and validation, as well as handling qualities research.

It was finally used to support Electro-Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) activities by QinetiQ, and then donated to the FAST Museum.

Technical Specifications

Crew : 3
Capacity : 16 passengers
Length : 18.15m (59ft 6 1/2in)
Rotor Diameter : 15m (49ft 2 1/2in)
Height : 5.14m (16ft 10 1/2in)
Engine : 2 x Turbomeca Turmo IVC turboshafts
Power : 1,175kw (1,575hp)
Maximum Speed : 257km/h (159mph)
Service Ceiling : 4,800m (15,750ft)
Empty Weight : 3,536kg (7,795lb)
Loaded Weight : 7,000kg (15,430lb)
Range : 580km (360 miles)