Corgi AA34202 Boeing Chinook HC.Mk 1 Diecast Model RAF No.18 Sqn, Falkland Islands, Falklands Conflict, 1982

Corgi AA34202 Boeing Chinook HC.Mk 1 Diecast Model RAF No.18 Sqn, Falkland Islands, Falklands Conflict, 1982

This Chinook HC.1 helicopter with the plate number 'BN' which was the only surviving RAF Chinook of the Falklands War. The crew, consisting of Fit. Lt. Kennedy, Fit. Lt. Tailby, MALM Savidge, and Sgt. Gibson, was fortunate to be airborne when the 'Atlantic Conveyor' was attacked by Argentine Navy Super Etendards. After the attack, the Chinook landed safely on HMS Hermes and continued to support the Royal Navy's Sea King detachment. The helicopter is also notable for transporting 81 fully-armed paratroopers in one mission from Goose Green to Fitzroy on June 2nd, 1982.

The Boeing Chinook HC.Mk 1 was designed to replace the CH-37 Mojave and first flew on September 21st, 1961. This helicopter has played a significant role in different wars, including Vietnam and Afghanistan. Its primary function is to transport troops, with secondary duties such as artillery emplacement and battlefield resupply. It can carry 55 combat-ready troops and has a crew of three. The Chinook's wide-loading ramp can be opened mid-air for paratroopers, and three cargo hooks can extend through a floor hatch, allowing it to be used as a flying crane.

Corgi's 1:72 scale Chinooks are highly sought-after models due to their accuracy and attention to detail. The rotor blades, which turn in opposite directions, are the most notable feature of the model. Two sets of rotor blades are included in each release, one with dropping blades for ground display and another with blades that are curved upwards for in-flight display. The model has steerable front wheels and a large nose canopy for easy viewing of the cockpit interior and crew figures. The rear cargo ramp is articulated and easy to configure, revealing a large cargo bay when fully opened. Each release also features delicate antennas and air inlets on the rear nacelles.