Boeing HC.Mk1 Chinook - ZA718

"The Survivor", No.18 Squadron, Falklands Detachment, 1982, RAF

Forces of Valor 1:72 821004C

The United Kingdom's Royal Air Force is just one of the many nations to have employed the Chinook in a variety of roles. Indeed, the RAF operates one of the largest fleets of Chinook helicopters outside of the United States, first entering service at the dawn of the 1980s. Designated as the HC Mk.1, the RAF Chinook is remarkably similar to the CH-47C operated by the US Army, although it is equipped with a pair of Lycoming T55-L-11E engines. During the Falklands War in April 1982, RAF Chinooks were sent to the conflict to provide support for British assault forces. Embarked upon the container ship, MV Atlantic Conveyor, the ship was attacked by an Argentine Navy Dassault Super Entendard strike fighter as it neared its destination. Four of the five Chinooks attached to No.18 Squadron were destroyed in the aerial attack, severely reducing the unit's combat capability.

The lone survivor, Bravo November, (serial number ZA718), was deemed airworthy and used to pick up freight from the Royal Navy's HMS Glasgow, a Type 42 destroyer, which was also part of the Task Force that managed to avoid the attack by the Entendards. During the ensuing campaign to liberate the islands from occupying Argentine forces, Bravo November transported approximately 1,500 troops, 95 casualties, 650 POWs and 550 tons of cargo to and from the battlefield. It was aptly given the the nick name "The Survivor" and, in due course, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for its meritorious service in combat.

Boeing CH-47 Chinook
Designed as a turbine replacement for the Mojave CH-37, the CH-47 was piloted for the first time on September 21, 1961. This iconic helicopter has a long history of service, seen actions in many wars, from Vietnam to Afghanistan. The Chinook is the US Army's heaviest transport helicopter, serving primarily as a troop carrier, with secondary roles including the location of artillery and battlefield replenishment. He has a crew of three and can move 55 troops ready for battle. Its wide loading ramp can be opened in flight for paratroopers, and three cargo hooks can pass through a floor hatch, allowing the Chinook to be used as a flying crane.

"Forces of Valor" Models features:

• Detailed cockpit
• Historically accurate printed markings
• Realistic panel lines and antennas
• Opening rear loading ramp
• Spinning main and tail rotor blades
• Display stand