With a name that is perhaps the best-known among Westland products, the Westland Lysander originated as the company's design to meet the requirements of Air Ministry Specification A.39/34 for an army co-operation aircraft. With a distinctive high-set wing and small stub-wings attached to the main wheel struts to carry weapons/stores, it was easily recognisable. The crew of two had enclosed accommodation and power was provided by a Bristol Mercury radial engine. The first of two prototypes was flown initially on 15 June 1936, successful testing resulting in a contract for 144 aircraft. The type began to enter service with No. 16 Squadron RAF in June 1938, and when production ended a total of 1,652 had been built. They were the first British aircraft to be based in France at the beginning of World War II and the last to see action in France during the evacuation from Dunkirk. They also saw service in Burma, Egypt, Greece, India and Palestine, and following withdrawal from first-line use played an important role in clandestine operations and fulfilled valuable. ASR and target-towing roles.

3-View

A three-view drawing (920 x 1094)