Leonardo marks 50th anniversary of its Lynx aircraft

The now-iconic aircraft, piloted by Ron Gellatly, completed two short flights of 10 minutes and 20 minutes respectively. In addition to the chief test pilot, his deputy, Roy Moxam occupied the co-pilot’s seat, and Dave Gibbings flew as the flight test engineer, responsible for instrumentation management, stress data monitoring, and back-up observations.

This landmark marks the 50th anniversary of Leonardo stepping into the leading position in this size/weight category in the helicopter market. The Lynx’s design and further development has met operators’ demands and changing requirements on land and at sea, which has led to the introduction of several variants in line with newly emerging technologies. The Lynx legacy also strongly contributes to the protection of the mainland and surrounding waters in the UK, ready to counter any potential threats in the maritime environment, in addition to performing in a combat helicopter role among others.

Over 500 aircraft built

More than 500 aircraft in this class have been built, serving operators worldwide. There are nine customers still using the aircraft today for missions such as anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, battlefield, search and rescue, coastal protection, light utility amongst many others. Current operators of Lynx variants include the Brazilian Navy, Royal Malaysian Navy, and South African Defence Force.

The Brazilian Navy has been operating Lynx helicopters for more than four decades. At the end of last year in the UK, the Brazilian Navy and Leonardo completed the Factory Acceptance Test for the fourth out of eight upgraded Super Lynx Mk21B helicopters. Leonardo continues to support its global customer base that still operates the Lynx.

Last year, Leonardo and ENAV signed a Letter of Intent in Italy aimed at modernizing the use of helicopters and air space.