dodgy-alan 1,587 Posted December 28, 2012 Report Share Posted December 28, 2012 In 1990 the first definitive Denel Rooivalk (Red Kestrel)took to the sky over South Africa. It was developed using the engines, rotor and tail rotor of the Aerospatiale Super Puma mated to a new fuselage. (An earlier experimental aircraft had been tested as proof of concept using the engines and rotors from the Allouette).Like all helicopter gunships it can carry a variety of external stores depending on it's mission. It was developed due to the increasing number of border skirmishes and incursions where due to their nature, fighter aircaft were unsuitable. Developement took longer than expected and the South African Air Force was the only customer, a hoped for sale to Turkey was beaten by the Agusta A129 Mangusta. 12 production were built though one was lost early on before delivery during a heavy landing. the remaining 11 remain in service and have now been fitted with the latest electronic systems. Top speed (VNE)is 193mph, ferry range is 829miles and the service ceiling is 20,000ft. this then is the Rooivalk.... Thanks for viewing Link to post Share on other sites
rosariomanzo 545 Posted December 28, 2012 Report Share Posted December 28, 2012 Thanks to you for sharing. Link to post Share on other sites
brett 2,316 Posted December 28, 2012 Report Share Posted December 28, 2012 Thanks for the looksee and info. It looks like it was beaten with an ugly stick. Link to post Share on other sites
mutley 4,498 Posted December 29, 2012 Report Share Posted December 29, 2012 I can see it hiding behind that bush! Nice find Alan, only 12 made and we have a flight sim model? There's dedication Link to post Share on other sites
hurricanemk1c 195 Posted January 6, 2013 Report Share Posted January 6, 2013 Superb shots Alan! Link to post Share on other sites
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