XX450 | Westland Gazelle AH.1

  • Aircraft type: Westland SA.341B Gazelle AH.1
  • Construction number: 1449
  • Military serial: XX450
  • Civilian registration: un-registered

XX450 is a Westland Gazelle AH.1 built by Westland Helicopters Ltd at their Yeovil, Somerset factory and it was delivered to RNAY Wroughton on 26 April 1976 for short term storage.

On 11 October 1976 it was flown to the Army Air Corps Centre at Middle Wallop where it remained and was involved in special trials between Westland and the Army Air Corps. On 1 July 1982 it was taken on charge by 3 Commando Brigade and remained with them until November 1992 when it transferred to 847 Naval Air Squadron, where it remained until it was flown to DARA Fleetlands on 9 February 2000 for long term storage.

This only lasted 4 months as on 21 June 2000 it was transported by road to Shawbury for disposal. Purchased by a private buyer on 31 July 2001, it was moved to Manor Farm, East Garston, Berkshire where it remained until being purchased on 15 June 2015 by the Gazelle Squadron.

XX450 of 3CBAS, Royal Marines, at RNAS Yeovilton in July 1992, via Andrew Morley.