Historical note: The Puma HC1 is a twin engine medium sized transport and utility helicopter. Used by the RAF since the late 1960s, the Puma has proven itself to be a capable and reliable machine. Undergoing only limited upgrades throughout their service, only now are serious modifications being made to modernise the Puma fleet.

Like many Pumas, XW214 served with the RAF in Northern Ireland, operating as a transport helicopter throughout the region during the start of the troubles. The Puma proved to be an invaluable machine, able to carry large loads and survive the sporadic small arms fire that occasionally greeted British forces. XW214 suffered major damage when it had an altercation with a hanger door en-route to a photo shoot with Airfix for the unveiling of their new 1:72 Puma model kit in March 1973. Ending up on its side and damaging a number of cars, another Puma had to be hastily repainted to take part in the unveiling.

Info: Puma HC.Mk 1 Diecast Model RAF No.33 Sqn, XW214, RAF Odiham, England, March 1973